Sometimes a change of plans works in our favour, with our Melbourne paddle delayed until May we took the opportunity to hold a base camp on Springberg Lane (just out of Stratford) and explored two local rivers.
On arrival at the meeting place I noticed that Pat, Roz and Shane were not about. Then I saw them paddling back up stream. They had been out doing a recci of the speed of river.
Everyone gathered around for introductions and a safety briefing. Then it was time to set off and enjoy the day. The paddle down the Avon was pleasant with a quick current and a breeze in our face. With the strength of the current it only took 15 minutes or so to reach the junction of the Avon and Perry rivers. Paddling up the Perry we were lucky enough to see quite a few birds. The kingfishers were my highlight.
The height of the water meant there were not too many places to stop, but Don found a lagoon in behind some bull rushes. So we paddled in there and had some morning tea. It was a pleasant spot with no mozzies. Leaving the lagoon and travelling onwards, it was noticeable that the river was starting to narrow. It was nearing lunchtime and Don (our trusty scout) found a small boat jetty with a clearing to have lunch. It was a little tricky getting off the river, but we all made it safely.
After lunch there it was 450 metres to the Perry Bridge. This may not be far, but with the narrowing river and fallen trees acting as blockers, made the task get a little harder. So with the bridge in sight we had to turn around and head for home. Paddling down the river was uneventful until we reached the Avon River junction where the water got a little bumpy adding more excitement to the day. Soon after everyone was back at the boat ramp safe and sound, much to Roz’s relief. Thanks everyone for a great day out.
Written by Richard McNeil
After a great paddle yesterday the remaining eight (not Avenel, Julie and Richard) set off up the Avon. The water was satiny smooth and good conditions.
We saw several cormorants (both types), a white-faced heron, a pelican, a rosella, small birds and heard corellas. We saw lots of rough stick nests in the melaleucas about one and a half metres above the water. We only saw one water dragon sunning itself on an old fallen tree.
The flow picked up gradually. We had a short break off to the side and were going to continue for fifteen minutes, but after ten we turned around carefully. The flow had increased along with turbulence. We enjoyed an easy, speedy return, about 9 kms in total.
Having excellent weather made for a great weekend. We had fun and socialising both on land and water.
Mosquitoes were around in the evening. Covering up, repellent and retiring early solved the problem.
Thanks to all paddlers for their company and assistance, especially Roz for all her efforts in leading the paddles and keeping us safe.
Written by Sue Steward
Attendees: Roz Spratt (Leader), Richard McNeil, Kate Senko, Graham Talmage, Gerard Best, Julie Cain, Don Creed, Shane Bright, Sue Steward, Avenel Casson and Pat Williams.
Distance: 18 kms - 4 hours
Grade: Easy