TOUKLEY KAYAK KLUB OLD REPORTS

Website created on 9 Jan 2009.
This page has reports up to 30 June 2009.
For reports 1 July 2009 to 31 December 2009 Click Here.

Report 30 June 2009 Wyong River, lower half. This was a record day in several ways: 1- most number of paddlers (23), 2- furthest distance paddled (16km), 3- most number of times someone has fallen in the water (3, not saying who). It's a big trip, from 300m from the mouth of the river to the weir and back. The bridge is about half way so some sensible people turned around there, but the rest of us ploughed on to the weir. Well done to those who made the full trip. The weather was cloudy and cool, despite the forecast of 23°C. And if you're soaking wet I can tell you it's a long cold journey back to the start. Water data at the weir: freezing cold (meltwater from the glaciers) and 5 feet deep. Still, it's an interesting trip downstream from the bridge with all the homeowners' concepts of riverfront life on display. Kevin fell out of his kayak at the end due to frozen muscles, and Trevor had to be lifted out of his boat. A wonderful lunch was enjoyed by all while we warmed up with a hot cuppa. Thanks to Russell and Kee for the photos. Danny
Report 23 June 2009 Wyong River Upper One of the best paddles so far! Perfect weather, bit of a flood happening so interesting currents, twenty paddlers in 18 boats... This is more of an adventure paddle than other longer, tamer excursions — only about 7km but many turns and log and bushy hazards to negotiate. What fun! Doug and I reccied this paddle back on May 1, so I've included some photos from then in the Album. Bit of a difference in the water level! The field gradually thinned out as the hazards became harder, but full marks to everyone for trying. Peter and I kept going through sheer determination not to let the other one get further up the river. Eventually we called it quits as we knew the other paddlers would be waiting for us. One of the log obstructions we actually had to dismount and drag our boats over. The river was quite deep at all places, flowing quite fast, and nowhere to go ashore. Even where we turned back the river looked beautiful and very inviting upstream. See Russell's photos — click here. Many people got wet as they tipped their craft to get under or over logs, splashing the wet stuff inside. Plenty of wet bums around today, even a bare one. Morning tea could be described in one word — fabulous! It took us half an hour to munch our way through it all. Don T celebrated his 79th birthday with a lovely cream cake complete with 7.9 candles. No-one was in a hurry to go home, the whole experience was so pleasant. Several new faces today (new to us anyway) so welcome Ken, Darryl and Brenton. Next week we'll do the bottom half of the river. Danny
Report 16 June 2009 Cockle Creek (Speers Point) by Kee Leo At 8.30 am when I arrived under the bridge of the Five Island Road, (Lake Macquarie Park), the water was flat and the sun was forcing itself through the clouds. Inside, I was noting down another occasion when the weather man got it wrong again in forecasting rain with strong winds. When the regular mob arrived, they were friendly and helpful and after a hive of activities, we launched about 12 kayaks and started paddling away in the southerly direction breaking the mirror-like water in what looked like a wonderful paddle ahead and for me, having no regrets for driving 110 km for the experience. We then turned north at Tulkaba Park towards Cockle Creek Train Station. The weather changed suddenly and some of the delicate folks had to reach for their rain jackets but with the Southerly winds helping, the paddling was not really an issue. After about an hour of paddling, we reached the junction of three creeks and it called for management decision. After an elaborate discussion we decided to explore the middle creek going northwards. This turned out to be a very short paddle because of a fallen tree. The team then explored the most easterly creek, along the Waratah Golf Course. It is about 1.5 km long and the number of boat sheds towards the end of the creek and the presence of 2 almost dis-used boats gave me the impression that there were some active boating activities here before. It was an interesting scenery which was occasionally spoiled by the some rubbish hanging on the mangrove trees' roots. As we returned to the junction of the 3 creeks, the weather broke loose. The heavy rain was not really an issue. Paddling against the strong Southerly wind was a real challenge. Our last 3 kayaks went along the western shore of the creek hoping to get shelter from the wind but to no avail. By the time we returned to Lake Macquarie Park, I think my arms have fallen off and my heels numbed from the cold. After packing our kayaks very quickly, we headed to a shed for brunch. The rain persisted and the wind got even stronger. The hot coffee was a welcomed refreshment and thanks to all those who prepared the sandwiches, etc to nourish the over-worked bodies. In conclusion, this outing was still better than having to go to the office. So I shall be back again somewhere, sometime when I am dry again. Cheers Kee Leo (First outing with the Group) Report 16 June 2009 — Doug and Sue Wet, wet, wet! That is how the day started and finished. The braver souls paddled on regardless through the rain, while Trevor, Jill, Sue, Patrick and Pierre headed back to the cars. Sixteen paddlers circled the islands at the mouth of the creek as the rain started, then after 1.5km the first 3 ‘chickens’ headed back, at the 2km mark 2 more headed back. We then continued until the fork in the creek, after much discussion, the decision was made to paddle the smaller centre creek until it was blocked by a large fallen log. We returned to the mouth and paddled right toward Glendale where we reached a weir. It was time then to head back, and time for the rain and strong wind to return! When we were all dry there really was nowhere out of the wind and rain to have morning tea, an open shelter with a roof was all that was available – but we gave it our best shot. A very much appreciated hot cuppa was had by all. I guess this is what you call paddling in winter! Adventurer of the day award must go to Kee, not only did he travel up from Mt Ku Ring Gai to paddle with us, he completed the whole paddle - rain, wind and all. Not the best introduction to the perfect paddling weather our little group normally experiences. All that and he brought some morning tea. You are welcome anytime Kee. [Not only that, but he sent photos and did a report as well - Danny] Cheers Doug & Sue Photos and map available in Photo Gallery. Click here. Total distance today: 13km!
Report 9 June 2009 Narara Creek 3, by Mike S We returned to the beautiful Narara Ck today for the southern section. This river by any other name could be known as Mangrove Central as you'd go a long way to find mangroves as prolific along our coastal waterways, somehow they seem to have avoided the ravages of mankind. Twelve paddlers in 11 craft sojourned in sunny conditions with a hint of winter in the air and returned across Fagans Bay into the stiff, cold, westerly with a taste of snow and ice - the question must be asked again, "What were the poor people doing today?" A few of us cruised around towards Brisbane Water to suss out the area near the railway bridge and copped a bit extra of the icy wind when returning to our launch spot. Bracing indeed, and wet for some! Sue gets a special mention this week clambering from her sick bed to supervise morning tea and the makings, closely followed by the great cook/paddlers who provided the sumptuous spread. Another good paddle and guess what - the sun shone again. The rain has forgotten how to mess up Tuesdays! Oh, and I remembered my paddle this week! Mike Click here for today's map. Thanks to John D
Report 2 June 2009 Erina Creek — Not the nicest place we've been, but interesting. The water looks a bit yukky, but judging by the way the pelicans were splashing in it, it must be cleaner than it looks. Interesting scenery, smooth water made for a hassle-free paddle up to the usual narrow and over-grown headwaters. Quite satisfying for us adventurers. Dougie left his pruning saw and secateurs in the car so we had to struggle through the vines and lantana like Jungle Jims. Thirteen people today and we paddled about 8-9 km depending on whether one made the trip out onto Brisbane Water for a look. That would be a good adventure on a nice day. We could probably find a better launch site as our venue today was a bit muddy and very noisy with the traffic only metres away. The ramp was very slippery and Peter went A over T into the gunk. The weather was excellent, but. Russell's photos are here. Thanks Russ. Danny
Report 26 May 2009 Wallarah Creek After a week of rotten weather, the Kayak Klub was able to negotiate another perfect day for our trip up Wallarah Creek, from the San Remo bridge. Seventeen people, 16 boats, paddled about 10 km up past the railway line into Warnervale, and back. See John's map below. A satisfyingly uneventful journey with some good solid paddling to get the muscatels working. The highlight of the day again was the morning tea/lunch with many people bringing home-made offerings. Thanks to Doug and Sue for their efforts, including the new gas stove for hot water for drinks, and the table to put everything on. Welcome to new Richard who joined us today. Photos available now. Danny
Report 19 May 2009 Avoca Lake What a beautiful place! Despite the threatening weather, seventeen paddlers on 15 craft made the journey to Avoca Beach — a record attendance. As can be seen from John's map below, Avoca Lake is a series of quite large ponds with an interesting creek to explore. The lakes are separated from the ocean by the beach, but the water is brackish, so Mike said and he tasted it. The water level seemed to be higher than normal as evidenced by all the inundated trees and grass. At one stage the main group had to wait for missing paddlers. It transpired that Don Harley had come to grief. Lesson — don't hang on to bridge girders to get underneath. Your boat will go out from under you and you will fall in the drink. Don now joins me and Barry as members of the submarine club. Graeme did his best to qualify, falling into the water while getting out of his inflatable, but failed to meet an important qualification, capsizing his boat. Just as well, as Jen was still sitting in it. Saltwater Creek was quite a challenge, but Harry, Doug and I got so far up it we couldn't turn around. I had to paddle backwards for 30 metres or so before I could turn my kayak around. With all the flooded forests there were plenty of chances to go wandering through the everglades between the trees, quite a spooky experience sometimes. The water is beautiful and clear, only a metre or so deep in most places, and the whole lake area is a magical place, which you can only experience by kayaking around it. The weather stayed nice, with the warming sun coming out frequently, and the water mostly glassy smooth. We paddled just over 9 km. Thanks for the map, John. Seventeen people, no cameras, so no pix this week. Don't miss the next time we come here — Five stars. Danny
Report 12 May 2009 Canton Beach Canton Beach has a lot to offer — huge parking and rigging area, toilets, grassy launch area, tons of smelly old sea grass... Unexpectedly beautiful weather, the lightest of breezes, sunny. The old Tuggerah Lake can turn it on when needed, surprising many who thought it was a yukky puddle. Paddling down by the Wyrrabalong National Park, the water was shallow and clear and there was plenty to see — hundreds of black swans, a stingray, an eel, bush, people in kayaks... Welcome to Margaret Smith, on her first outing with the club, but bringing much experience and a beautiful sit-in kayak. Alan and Jan came for a look, so we might see some more boats being purchased for use with our pretend little club. Sixteen paddlers today, same as last week, with Gra and Jen in the inflatable double. Some paddlers went as far as the houses at North Entrance, so they finished up doing more than 12 km. It seemed much further coming back than it was going, so there were some tired little teddy bears by the finish. Morning tea at Barry and Lois's later replenished everyone's energy, after they ate everything in sight. Owing to certain people taking off on their own and getting lost or misplaced, a new system for re-grouping will be implemented, namely Doug will have a whistle, and when it is blown, it means "Come back here". Anne had the GPS so the record of the journey appears below. Danny Report from Sue and Doug Just to add to this week's report a big "Thank you" is to go to Lois and Barry for providing the wonderful venue and morning tea. We were indulged yet again and I don’t think anyone left hungry. Yesterday’s paddle was apparently 12.9kms so we went a fair way. Coming back was not “wind assisted” as we all had hoped and we had to paddle all the way, tiring, but very good all the same. The other ‘highlight’ of the day was the ‘apple slinkies’ Doug provided for morning tea. Apparently, most of the paddlers had never seen one before and were quite intrigued. Mind you, I don’t think I have ever seen something as ‘ordinary’ as apple be eaten with such relish as the ‘slinkies’ were. Maybe we are all big kids at heart after all. We might make them part of our weekly fare, fun and healthy, what more can you ask. Sue and Doug
Report 5 May 2009 Gwandalan Sixteen hardy paddlers in 15 boats braved the inclement weather conditions again for what resulted in a very pleasant outing on the lake from Gwandalan. A few light sprinkles of rain, crystal clear water and a very mild breeze made for almost perfect conditions for paddling. Our two newest “recruits”, Marie Jeanne and Patrick, have purchased kayaks (the increasingly popular Cobra brand,’ Escape’), however today Patrick enticed his son Pierre to join us oldies in Marie Jeanne’s kayak. Jill and Trevor’s son, Bram, also subbed today for Trevor, it was nice to see him on a return paddle, so we mustn’t be too painful for the younger ones after all. As we were at Gwandalan, Suzanne and Russell invited all to a “sausage sizzle” back at their place after the paddle. Oh – my – goodness!! Don’t believe them when they say a simple sausage sizzle – we had a banquet! Everyone one of us left with over full bellies and I am guessing went home to have a little “Nanna Nap” after eating all that delicious food. Thank you soooo much Suzanne and Russell you have really set the benchmark now – a hard act to follow. Any other takers? I think not. The group is going from strength to strength with the numbers that turn up each Tuesday – in spite of the weather, which is just great to see. Cheers, Sue and Doug Photos here! John Daley's map of today's course:
Report 28 April 2009 Gorokan Fish Co-op You wouldn't believe it - thirteen paddlers in twelve kayaks today, same as the last 2 weeks. Different crew each time. Three new people to replace absent friends. Today we welcomed Russell and Suzie's friends Marie-Jeanne and Patrick who used R&S's new double Cobra. Anne D had to go to work, so John came with us in the yellow Cobra Play. Our plan was to head to Wallarah Bay like we did on Thursday the 16th, but as we steamed up the Bay the headwind from the SW was too strong so we went back under the bridge and set a course up the west side of Budgewoi Lake. Although we were going in a completely different direction, the wind still seemed to be head-on, so we stuck to the shore-line, albeit in 30cm of water, and missed the worst of the wind. There aren't any interesting little creeks on this shore but it was pleasant enough, with plenty to see in people's back yards, including about 4 quite nice-looking Hobie Cats which should be sailing at Toukley. The trip back was very different with a strong tailwind which makes it hard to steer, but you can go quite fast. I need a rudder or something. It's such a struggle keeping on course. Barry is Paddler-of-the-Week again, having made the journey from home at Canton Beach to the Co-op. LATE NEWS: Barry just rang to tell us that after going back under the bridge into the hell-hole that is Tuggerah Lake in a westerly, he was flipped over by a big wave hitting him side-on while trying to turn towards home. He swam the boat over to the rocks and tipped out most of the water from his hull before continuing his journey with 5 or 6 litres of seawater sloshing around in the kayak with him. Because of good preparation, like having all his stuff properly stowed in water-proof containers, and wearing full water-proof gear including a PFD (life-jacket), no harm was done, and Baz now joins a very exclusive club of kayakers who have gone in the drink. Only two of us so far, but new members welcome. John D has sent the following map of our trip today. Russell's photos now available. Click on Photo Gallery button above. Danny

Report 21 April 2009 Dora Creek Thirteen paddlers in 12 craft were active today, a good roll up with the sky threatening possibly anything. However our Tuesday curse on the farmers continued and no rains fell - on the contrary the sun shone on us again! The objective this time was to explore Stockton Creek, which runs west of Morisset off Dora Ck and under Freemans Drive, we didn't get to the limit of navigation today. As is our wont we explored every opening in the bank that we could float through and found some enjoyable narrow creeks, none of them very long. In one we saw an azure kingfisher which kept displaying himself and wasn't as shy as they normally are. Another had beaut reflections but Danny and Peter were in a playful mood and that was that! First time we've seen Danny smiling all day for a long time, looks like the new kayak survives more than a week! We'll have to wait to see Richard's new craft, after some shakedown cruises in the lake it has been returned to storage? The water level was very high today and the waterway was running a brimmer hiding the usual step-up banks. The grass fringes floating at the water's edge creating a smooth transition from water surface to land or vice versa, depending on whether you are optimist or pessimist? We are becoming very fond of Dora Creek it is a great asset. Once more the call resounded, "Wonder what the rich are doing today", for none could be richer than us enjoying our natural environment. Mike Flash! See the photos here!
Report 16 Apr 09 Tuggerah Lake Richard, Pam, Doug and I went for a paddle today. We launched at the Fish Co-op at Gorokan and went under the bridge to Wallarah Bay, Pipeclay Point and further down towards Wyongah (Where You Ought Not Go After Hours). Richard had his new Dagger Blackwater sit-in plastique, goes like a torpedo. I didn't fall off my new kayak so I'm more than happy. Pam did alright but she was a bit tired after 6km. It's a worthwhile course so we must add it to our list. We did see a funny thing when we came back though. Check this out: And what about Barry's new boat: How are we going to keep him in sight? Danny
Report 14 April 09 Chain Valley Bay South The Gods smiled on us again this week and we had beautiful weather. Thirteen paddlers in 12 boats launched at Chain Valley Bay Sth (Old B’s boat ramp). We paddled down Karignan Creek at first until we came to a dead end. It was a pretty creek and quite secluded, but sadly, not very long. We all turned around and headed NW down through the bay to Mannering Park Scout Hall. We pulled up to stretch our legs on a little sandy beach, coincidently, right outside Darcy’s house, but no coffee and cakes were forthcoming, they mustn’t have been home. I am sure if they were home they would have heard us, we aren’t the quietest group. Doug, Russell and Mike ventured off down a little side creek but it also was a dead end. Harry and Peter tried the same creek on the way back but it was the same result, but that is all part of the adventure, going places and seeing sights you haven’t seen before. Morning tea was the usual enjoyable gathering. Danny was given a leave pass and arrived to indulge us with delicious homemade scones, fresh from the oven, still warm! How spoilt are we?!?! Hmmm, I wonder if Marie can keep him home long enough next Tuesday to miss paddling but bring us morning tea. Just a thought! Second thoughts, no, we need Danny out on the water to see how he can entertain us. We never quite know what he has in store for us or what boat he is going to bring out of his fleet. Richard has updated his kayak – to be unveiled this week. I am glad we haven’t had to christen all these new boats with bottles of champagne, we’d have gone broke! Sue and Doug We have some photos from Russell. Click here!
Report 9 April 09 Just a quick report on recent events. Yesterday I went back to C-Kayaks with my ill-fated Cobra Escape. The lovely Mel gladly took it back and showed me some other kayaks. I was interested in the Cobra Explorer, but after I saw it was the same width as the Escape, and had the same bulbous keel and high seat I knew it was no good for me. Most of the others, like the Squid, looked too small, so I finally decided on something called the D.A.G. Taïki, a huge boat of 22kg and 3.45m length, with a deep interior and shiny flat bottom. I love it — impossible to tip over, fast and comfortable. Mellaney just swapped it for the Cobra - I love that girl! Richard and Pam and Doug and I went paddling today to try it out, and Pam had a go in Sue's kayak and for a first-timer of nervous disposition she did alright. We launched at Sunshine Park and paddled down the Ourimbah Creek to the Lake and back. Afterwards we had morning tea, or lunch, of hot-cross buns that Sue and I both brung. Have a look at Russell's photos from Tuesday. Click here. Danny
Report 7 April 09 Lake Munmorah Although we had just a tiny spot of rain at the start, the weather cleared up to a beautiful bright cloudy day. Thirteen of us paddled up the shore from the Elizabeth Bay beach, heading north, going up a few little interesting channels that we found. The power station channel would have been interesting but there was a barrier across it about 500m in with warning signs about trespassers being electrocuted, so we went back. There was a beautiful area full of dead melaleuca trees, but I can't imagine how they came to be out in the water. There should be a piccy from Russell soon. From there we paddled all the way back across the lake (Munmorah) to our start point over two kilometres east. Most of the time the water was glassy smooth and the paddling was exhilarating. A lovely and satisfying day kayaking. Except for the last 5 minutes when my Cobra Escape chucked me off again. Could be where the name comes from. I'm taking it back to the shop tomorrow and getting another one that doesn't escape. Do you blame me? PS Photos from today now available here. Danny
Report 3 April 09 Ourimbah Creek Richard, bless him, asked if I would like to try out my new kayak this morning, so we went down to Sunshine Park, Chittaway, and put our boats in the Ourimbah Creek. This is the Cobra Escape I bought on the way home on Tuesday, supposed to be just my size. At over 10ft long it certainly is big, but the footwell is shorter than the others I have paddled. Fits OK anyway. About 500m down the river I got my mobile phone out of the hatch where I had also stored my car and house keys, sunglasses and raincoat and gave it to Richard to take some photos. I neglected to put the hatch cover back on. A minute later over I went and the kayak is upside down in the water. The hatch cover, water bottle and life jacket are floating away but my main concern is for the keys, which I couldn't find in the hatch basket. Shit! Anyway, using my newly devised self-rescue powers from last week I managed to get back in and have a good look for the keys etc, which I find all there, thanks to the raincoat jammed on top of them. Richard had the life jacket, and amazingly I found the hatch cover floating just under the surface a couple of minutes later. The drink bottle, a new Staminade, was never found. Can you believe a bottle of water with a bit of air in it would sink? So, why did it tip me out? I think the picture at the top shows that I am sitting very high as the seat is about 6 inches above the bottom of the boat. I didn't fall out over the next 2 hours, but I think my adventurous paddling behaviour may need to be curtailed. When we got back to the Park, after paddling out onto Tuggerah Lake and back, Dougie was there, having ridden his bike 40km (Sue had the car), with cups of hot coffee from the shop for us. I'm speechless (nearly). Kayaking and cycling are good fun and healthy, but the friendship in the clubs is amazing. Thank you Richard and Doug! See yez all next Tuesday. Danny
Report 31 March 09 Narara Creek It looked like raining all day, but eleven dedicated kayakers rolled up at Narara Creek, West Gosford, determined to make the most of it. In fact it didn't rain till about 11.30am then it pissed down. But it cleared up for morning tea. We headed upstream as far as we could go at low tide, to a beavers' dam which Russell tried very hard to clear with his bare hands but by then we had lost interest and left him to it. Warwick and Robin had the double canoe (the Pasha Bulka) which goes very well. I had a loan of Trevor's Foxx and found it very nice compared to my old tugboat. Seeing I had to go home past the C-Kayak Shoppe I dropped in to have a look. Hmmm, wonder if Danny bought a new boat? Nice to have Richard back, even if he did get lost finding the venue. Even Margaret might come back, if it's a nice day. Rain is good for you Marg, makes you grow. It's 12.30am so that's it. Next week at Elizabeth Bay. Be there! There are some new photos from Russell from Toukley on 10/3 and Ourimbah Creek on 24/3. Click here! Danny
Report 24 March 09 Ourimbah Creek A little birdie flying high Spotted some paddlers on the nigh As he flew to investigate He decided to tail-gate Fourteen people, twelve canoes Deciding what to do Ourimbah creek west was to be the direction Of this insurrection Of canoe and paddle, a red flash Was seen to go by in a dash Aboard was a couple Making a spectacular double Riverfront properties abounded While bends in the river were rounded The paddlers all, were keeping A pace, not creeping Alas a weir was detected And the paddlers were deflected As the thought a rock scramble Changed this ramble The paddlers were treated to Many a shag for them to view A “foxx” was sighted and aim taken A shriek was heard and a paddler shaken A “frenzy” followed, aimed by Danny Who as a paddler, seem quite canny Staying afloat he had some trouble And practised boarding on the double They lunched on a smorgasbord Before they left in a hoard So even they come in the rain The birdie hopes they paddle his way again Graeme and Jen
Report 17 March 09 Today’s paddle started at the Lions Park at Wyong after a “raft-up” for a photo opportunity by John Daley. The contingent of canoeists totalled thirteen people in twelve craft, with Anne Daley christening her new Cobra Play and avoiding a christening of her own – well done Anne. The section of the Wyong River which we paddled was reasonably wide and deep, and consequently relatively free of threatening snag and logs for the one inflatable, but had enough overhanging branches etc for the adventurous Danny to paddle under close enough for a possible nose reconstruction . We reached the weir in about an hour and ten minutes and decided to retrace our strokes but continue past the Lions Park to the broader sections of the river past some impressive properties, along a lovely side channel and around an island to return to the cars. One intrepid paddler (Peter) with too many muscles broke his paddle and was forced to continue for two thirds of the journey at half capacity, but no appreciable reduction in his pace. The distance for the paddle today was recorded at eleven kilometers. Morning tea was a lively event with much chatter and banter and a lovely spread. Next week is a paddle on Ourimbah Creek Starting at Sunshine Park UBD references Map 57 M7. Happy paddling, Graeme and Jennifer Click here for a GPS map of our trip today. Don't forget to hit the Back Arrow to return here. Photos now available, click here.
Report 10 Mar 09 Budgewoi Lake Today 9, yes 9, hardy souls braved the fairly strong Easterly that was blowing and launched their kayaks. Today’s paddlers were Barry, Mike, Doug, Sue, Peter, Suzanne, Russell, Don and Harry (no, not the cycling Don and Harry). It was heavy going into the wind as we headed across the lake toward The Beachcomber. Once we rounded the corner we were sheltered from the wind a little and it was very pleasant paddling along the shallow foreshore. We didn’t quite get to the “Toukley Golf Club point” as the lake was just too shallow (visions of Danny wading last week came to us all). On the return trip the wind was at our backs and we got to do some wave riding. I think had we been a little later, the waves would have been a fair bit larger as “white caps” started to appear while we had morning tea. Barry again gets the “Adventurer of the Week” award, as he paddled from home to meet us at the Co-op and then paddled home. We just hope the wind wasn’t blowing into his face as he turned the corner to head for home as it was quite gusty by then. A “nanna nap/ senior snooze” might be on the cards for him this afternoon. Today we paddled approx 7kms (we have a discrepancy in GPS’s) and apart from the wind when we first set sail it was very enjoyable and a good time was had by all. Morning tea was supplied by Suzanne, and she indulged us with home made delicacies – yum! Sue and Doug See Google map of today's paddle (thanks Don Harley) Click here then on Back arrow to come back here.
Report 03 Mar 09 Budgewoi Lake the northern end Slow Touring Kayak Paddle —Venue Mackenzie Reserve Budgewoi. 12 starters today, this weekly event is BIG. Will winter dampen the enthusiasm? Watch this space! Because the Nor-Easter was already fresh, the plans changed to a paddle through the Budgewoi Ck channel into Budgewoi Lake and around the shoreline to a turnaround at Edgewater Park, Buff Point. All went well with the wind behind and the exploration along the shoreline revealed remnants of stone pens, ponds or traps elaborately constructed in 2 locations around Buff Point. Are they earlier civilisations' handiwork or later creations? And what was their purpose? Most of the cyclists were sussing out the route of the extensions to the cycleway too. The group was spread far and wide on return around Buff Point where the wind had whipped up some good-sized chop and most set a straight line course for Green Point, straight into the wind. When Danny arrived he devised a cunning plan and headed in a straight line for Budgewoi Point. The shortest distance between 2 points being a straight line, RIGHT? In the hope of some catch up by this clever maths Danny was making some progress till he failed to notice a white egret standing nearby in water not up to its knees! So eventually Danny (JC) had to walk across Toukley Golf Club's second 18 holes circa 2060. If only I had had a camera, the imagery was wonderful to behold, the water depth didn't cover the tops of Danny's booties! All, bar Danny, paddled 10kms. It's rumoured he paddled 8 and walked 2 today. Our first kayak walker. Another great day out in perfect weather. Today's photos click here. Mike Don't miss the report about Tumbi Creek from yesterday below. Here is a pic of our paddle GPS record (not Danny's) thanks to Don Harley:
Report Monday 2 March 09 Today Doug and I went up Tumbi Creek for a recce for future paddles. It's a beautiful creek as soon as you leave the launch area near the footbridge, but it only goes about 1500 metres. The creek finishes at the Wyong Road bridge. There is a little tributary which we tried out. It only goes about 300 metres and includes the lowest limbo obstacle we have encountered. You have to slide forward in your boat and lay flat out with your head on the back of your kayak. We may include this in a future paddle from, say, Picnic Point. There are some photos which Doug took. Click here! Danny
Report 24 Feb 09 Wyee Creek Nine adventurers launched at Kevin Street, Mannering Park, on a perfect day. Straight across the bottom of Wyee Bay to the pipes under Rutleys Road. Merle had her new kayak and what a beauty it is, to match its owner. Jill had hers too while Don borrowed his grandson's flat-top boat, the same as my first ill-fated one, so he found the going pretty tough. Graham and Jenni did well in their inflatable. Jill and I swapped boats for a while and I found her kayak so much faster than my big ocean boat. Can't say much more about this event except it's one of my faves with the scenery so beautiful and different, what with all the trees and water and stuff. Going thru the pipes is certainly an experience, especially those low ones. Photos are here. For Doug and Mike the distance today was 12km and for the rest of us somewhat less depending on where we called it quits. Danny
Report 17 Feb 09 Dora Creek Despite rain for the previous several days, the weather cleared to allow a very pleasant 8km paddle up the lovely Dora Creek, which is really quite a big river, at least to people who come from Victoria. The weather was cool (22°), cloudy with a light breeze. We had ten paddlers on nine boats, nearly all different, with many regulars away this week. This is our best attendance so far. Welcome to Suzanne and Russell, who used the double canoe, and swapped with Trevor and Jill in the Foxxes for the return trip. Yummy morning tea, thanks Merle and Barry. It started raining after the drive home, so we felt blessed. No photos today. Late news: Russell and Suzanne went out and bought new kayaks the same day! Danny
Report 10 Feb 09 Tuggerah Lake A hardy band of nine adventurers set off from Picnic Point at The Entrance with a moderate southerly blowing and the likelihood of showers. Our group was Doug, Sue, Jill, Bram(son), Merle, Don, Mike, Kevin and Richard. We paddled south into the wind but all except Kevin and Richard soon turned across the lake towards the northern shore. We rested on an island in the middle of Tuggerah lake then headed for the lee shore of Terilbah Island. Near the shore Doug got out of his boat to drag us across the shallows and Richard decided to do the same thing. He managed to get stuck in the mud and we had our first fall. Fortunately the only thing hurt was his dignity and he soon recovered; different to falling off a bicycle! The drag up the channel beside Terilbah Island was as tough as we have had. Merle, Don, and Jill and Bram in the double Canadian had no trouble and paddled like experienced canoeists. Mike and Kevin did their usual casual paddle neither raising a sweat. Richard as usual was last. The distance covered today was 6.5 km. The highlight of the day was Doug's delightful dangling dining table which he invented to attach to his trailer as a stable table. He thinks we may all see him soon on the Inventors show on ABC television. Richard and Margaret will be absent for the next few weeks; Richard and Pam in Vietnam and Margaret in New Zealand. Hope I don't step on any land mines. Happy Paddling. Regards, Pam & Richard
Report 3 Feb 09 Wallarah Creek 10 km. Perfect conditions today. Nine paddlers on 8 kayaks, including Graham and Jennifer on their inflatable double. Also new today were Trevor and Jill on their new Foxx plastic sit-ons and very nice boats they are too. Even for a raw beginner like Jill she had no trouble keeping up with most of us. The other usual suspects, Doug, Sue, Danny, Richard and Barry also participated. Barry takes out the Adventurer of the Week owing to his paddling from home on Canton Beach, an extra hour and a quarter.We paddled down the creek to meet him on the lake and very pleasant it was too. Doug took him home afterwards tho. We just kept going as far up the creek as we could, well past the rail bridge, over all manner of obstructions, mostly logs. Graham and Jen in the inflatable had to be a bit careful with pointy objects. This boat went surprisingly well, easily keeping up the pace. Next week we'll start at Picnic Point on Lake Tuggers. See new photos on the album. Danny
Report 27 Jan 09 Narara Creek 27-1-09 14.5 km travelled. Today we headed for the grotty creek travelling through the West Gosford industrial areas, which exits into Fagans Bay thence Brisbane Water in pouring rain. Well that was my misconception of what we would find. WRONG! Let me explain. We launched from a park straight into a mangrove forest called Fagans Bay and paddled our way across to the entrance to Narara Creek (more like a river!) in very shallow water over ribbon weed beds with a lot of fish activity. So we entered the river as light rain was falling and the mists were enveloping the mountain tops all around our horizon. Eventually only enough drizzle descended to dampen our shirts. Even up through the industrial areas the development, in the main, is well back from the riverbanks and certainly well screened by the prolific growth of mangroves, casuarinas, and the feral population of lantana, privet and camphor laurels. Did I tell you the water surface was now like glass and with the assistance of the incoming tide we're fairly gliding along, and loving it? When we reach the third road bridge, where the best advice we had tells us "end of the road", we just keep on paddling until a log across the creek finally stymies our progress. The remnant king tides are still with us and going our way. After a longish break on a nearby sandspit Sue comments that the tide has now turned and is going out. With that Doug leaps into his kayak and tears off upstream and disappears around the corner without a murmur. As we follow we discover the log is now submerged and passable and although the creek is now snaggy, twisting and narrow we make it to the road bridge on Carrington Street, where there is a rock bar separating fresh from tidal water and Doug takes a lie buster pic for any Doubting Thomases. A couple of bumps to negotiate on the way back sees us in fits of giggles as a swim threatens. What fun us kids are having! The sand spit refuge is now completely underwater as we pass it, however, the tide is now running out so we have accomplished what is known as "immaculate timing". Plenty more fish swirls, bird life and glassy water for the downhill run and the shallow weed flats in Fagans Bay are now under 2 foot of water and we have a tail wind in bright sunshine to boot, couldn't have been perfecter or is that perfector, my spelling checker will haemorrhage here! What a great creek with plenty of interest! Pity there were only four of us to eat the choccy biscuits and date and walnut roll with caffeine on completion. Mike
Report 20 Jan 09 Erina Creek 6 people turned up for today’s paddle, Doug, Kevin, Margaret, Mike, Richard and Sue. It was a sunny hot day around 30 degrees, slight NE/E breeze. It was very pleasant on the water. We launched the kayaks at The Punt Bridge, The Entrance Road (Central Coast Hwy) East Gosford and headed off toward Erina Heights. Once we had left the traffic noise behind us, we were serenaded by the sound of Bellbirds. There was also the occasional sighting of Water Dragons and blue Kingfishers. Morning tea was not up to the usual standard, we had to suffice with scotch finger biscuits and not home made delicacies. Kevin did offer around his Banana Bread. Whilst we were having morning tea, a car pulled up with a kayak on its roof, and the woman got out of the car. She pulled over to sticky beak to see if it was anyone she knew. As it turned out she knew Margaret from her “other” kayak group, and after talking with everyone today, she is quite keen to join us on our paddles as she finds the” other” group too fast for her. She will probably join us in about 4 weeks but Marg is going to give her our website address so she can see for herself. The word is spreading! Doug
Report 13 Jan 09 Wyee Creek Excellent paddling conditions today - light NE breeze, sunny, warm (27°C). Seven kayakers participated, Doug, Marg, Don, Danny, Kevin, Linda and Mike. We paddled from the boat ramp at Mannering Park down Wyee Bay sticking to the shoreline. Some rascals paddled under a big catamaran moored there. We then slid through the big pipes under Rutleys Road and into Mannering Bay, which is warm and shallow. From there we paddled up Wyee Creek which is quite beautiful and untouched, and opens out onto a lake formed by mine subsidence with many drowned trees. Sadly no-one brought a camera so we can't show you. It was a bit harder going back through the pipes as there was quite a strong flow against us, so we had to drag ourselves up the pipe by hand. Scary if you are at all claustrophobic. A long paddle back up the bay against the breeze was quite tough for some, but worth it for the lovely morning tea with fresh fruit scones. A few wannabe kayakers were there too so on a good day there will be quite a flock of us, when they all get their boats. (Who would imagine that by the end of the year we would get over 30 paddlers each week!) Thanks to all involved in making this happen. Danny