All good things come to those that wait; particularly the tide!
The original plan had been to paddle on Thursday 4th July, but due to the change in day the tide was not quite where it should have been, leaving a large area of mud and exposed lumps of concrete at the bottom of the ramp such that launching would have been difficult for those with a dislike of muddy stuff (me) or with a non plastic boat.
The other option was to launch from the floating pontoon which sits significantly above the water level; a challenge in its own right. The tide was rising so we waited, enjoying a catch up and late breakfast (for some). The forecast of freezing morning, blue sky and sunshine did not appear to apply to Venus Bay – gentle wind, cold and cloudy – a grey day!
With the water level higher we launched into calm waters abutting the Jetty and proceeded in an anticlockwise direction, following the red buoys that mark the channel to paddle around the mangrove islands, into the incoming tide – significant tidal flow. Reminders given not to venture off the channel or risk getting 'stuck in the mud'. Having dressed for the cold morning – beanie, jumper, jacket – this writer was soon disrobing back to the usual paddling attire – rashi and light jumper!
Amongst the mangrove islands the water appeared as a mirror, out onto Anderson's Inlet the tide was showing its true intent with the buoys lying at half mast in the flow. The refurbishment of Maher's Landing Jetty was to be seen on the far side of the inlet, but due to the type of craft on water today, we did not venture over to inspect – road access to Maher's Landing is still closed – we will have to wait and see what improvements for kayakers have been made!
Making our way back to the start, a circumnavigation of the mangrove islands, the tide well in and no mud to be seen we packed up to enjoy lunch at “The bay” in Venus Bay.
Thank you Roz for arranging and leading this paddle.
Participants: Don, Roz, Maree and Avenel
Author: Avenel