A large scale map, 1:10,000 say, presents more detail than a smaller scale map (1:100,000 say).  If this sounds counter intuitive, consider a 1/10 scale model of a 1938 Chevrolet (say), it will show more detail than a 1/100 model, consistent with 1/10 being numerically larger than 1/100.  In part the confusion arises because for a given map sheet size (say A3) a smaller scale map covers the larger geographical area.

The scale of a topographical map is usually presented in two forms, as a scale ratio 1:25,0000 (say) and as a scale bar.  For example a 1:25,000 map 1km would be represented by 40 mm on the scale bar.  The scale ratio is only valid if the map is printed at the intended size; the scale bar remains true for any print size.  Even if printed on the nominated paper size an error can occur because the printer may alter the nominal size intending to make the map a better fit on the sheet.  Select "actual size" or 100% in the printer dialogue box to avoid this problem.  Near the bottom right corner of a CCM map a user can find a fine print cryptic notation along the lines of "60μ 09/08/2018".  In this (typical) example if the map is printed to the intended size, 60 mm on the map represents 1 km on the ground.  (Briefly, the 'μ' arises because the ratio of mm to km is one millionth.)  The larger this value the larger the scale.  For example, on the Post Office Hill map the value is 250μ.

On CCM topographical maps, except for the larger scale maps (Rise and Shine Bushland Reserve, Post Office Hill and Campbells Creek Track), the grid spacing is 1 km.  As a ready guide to distance the grid can help manage "shall we stop here for lunch, or continue on to the dam?" type questions.

Generally on a CCM map there are 4 classifications of roads (sealed major, sealed minor, unsealed road, 4wd road) and 3 classifications of walking tracks (major, minor, indistinct).  The determination of the grade of sealed roads is relatively straightforward, however the distinction between an unsealed road and a 4WD road is a morass of subjective criteria.  You might say, all 2WD unsealed roads are like one another; each 4WD road is an 4WD road in its own way (apologies to Tolstoy) – a 150mm step may stop some 2WD vehicles and be no difficulty for others; one owner may be concerned about bushes scratching his vehicle, another not so; a road passable in autumn may be impassable in spring. 

The grade of walking tracks are determined on the basis of visibility and ease of walking.  The classification 'indistinct' can also be read as 'improvised'  Only walkers prepared to manage a "where on earth has the track disappeared to?" situation should consider using an indistinct track. It is a subjective judgment to classify an item as 4WD road or as a major walking track.  Since the CCM maps are intended for walkers, the decision may be determined by environmental factors, such as erosion or regrowth.

Boundaries for classifications of the various parks and forests are shown on CCM topographical maps.  These boundaries are obtained from DELWP data.  There can discrepancies between the map data and on the ground features such as private fence lines. – reasons are several and mostly benign.

Not assessed, NAS, indicates that (possibly because it appeared irrelevant and possibly because of shortage of time on the day) CCM had stopped acquiring data for this road or track.

The contours on CCM topographical maps are spaced at 10 metre intervals.  The contours that have 100 as a factor are emphasized.  The contour value sits on the uphill side of the contour line and reads the right way up for a viewer facing uphill.

The typical miner's hut has now deteriorated to a scrap of wall, a fire place and perhaps a chimney as these items were built with rock and improvised mortar.  On some maps such ruins are labelled, "Surnames's Chimney", however, on CCM maps the ruin would be named "Surnames's Hut" to avoid confusion with other chimney features found in gold mining areas.