Despite a daunting weather forecast, we met at the northern end of Lake Glenmaggie, and were rewarded by a beautiful day for kayaking. The water was glassy smooth, and the reflections of the pale green willows new foliage was delightful.
Pat reported that the water level had dropped since her last (recent) visit, but we were still able to paddle over areas that would normally be dry and grassy. Going upstream we kept to the right-hand bank, and on the rocks there we saw 7 water dragons sunning themselves, apparently oblivious to us, or perhaps they were motionless in the hope that we would not notice their beautifully camouflaged bodies. Then Pat spotted a dark wallaby on the bank. We passed under a huge sea eagle nest, but it wasn’t at home.
Continuing upstream we paddled under a road bridge, and eventually reached a shallow rocky section where we had to wade, towing the kayaks, before being able to paddle on. After about another kilometre we arrived at our morning tea stop, where the creek became too shallow to continue. Across the creek was a lovely waterfall which Pat had never before seen running.
Returning downstream was quicker, of course, and at the shallow area we dared to “run the rapids” which was a bit of excitement. Fortunately, no-one tipped over! Lunch was eaten back at the cars.
A very pleasant morning, thank you Pat.
Written by: Michael Haynes
Distance & Duration: 7kms
Difficulty: Easy
Attendees: Pat Williams (Leader), Michelle Timmins and Michael Hayes (Strzelecki Bushwalking Club)