TOUKLEY KAYAK KLUB OLD REPORTS

Website created on 9 Jan 2009.
This page has reports from 1 Jan 2010 to 30 June 2010.
For current webpage, click this button

For earlier reports, 30 June 09 to 31 December 09 Click Here
Tuesday 29 June 2010 — Wallarah Creek, San Remo/Blue Haven
The 10°C temperature did not deter many people on an otherwise brilliant day: sunny, clear, no wind... Twenty-three kayaks were crewed, some with a forr'id (not sure how to spell this) hand. We went up the Spring Creek option as far as we could (some further than others) past beautiful Blue Haven and the Motorway Link. Harry's pictures will show you what a divine day it was: Click here.
You might want to have a look at Jennifer and Graeme's American Travelog here.
Danny

Friday 25 June 2010 — Bike ride to Woy Woy
Danny, Doug, Mike and Peter H rode from their various homes in Gorokan and Toukley, respectively, via Wyong and Ourimbah, to Woy Woy railway station, together, then caught a train back to Wyong, where we had a very nice cup of coffee before riding back home. The weather was cloudy but no rain fell while we were riding. Total distance for me was 54km.
A very pleasant and easy ride with some mates — ya can't beat it!
Danny
PS Click here for Kee's photos of his paddle last Tuesday.

Tuesday 22 June 2010 — Ourimbah Creek
Threatening weather, or other pressing engagements, kept most people away but those of us who turned up were rewarded with a very pleasant morning out on the river. A few sprinkles of fairy rain, no wind, even a spot of blue sky and sunshine, but it did turn colder and rainy as we were having morning tea, so we kept eating to keep warm. Unlike last time we went up here, last Friday week, there was no floodwater so the weir re-appeared, forcing the less adventurous (or not suitably equipped), viz Bill and Chris, Tony, Sue and Bob, to go back downstream for the rest of their paddle, while the usual suspects (Doug, Danny and Russell) paddled upstream into Wonderland where no signs of human existence appears, and a light mist sits over the water, upon whose surface the surrounding bushland is reflected. Sound nice? Another awesome kayaking experience! No photos today.
Danny
Friday 18 June 2010 — Bike ride from Fassifern
This ride was washed out 2 weeks ago, but today the weather was stunning. Five of us, Danny, Doug, Peter H, Kee and Kevin Mac caught the train to Fassifern and rode back home. We saw Ian and Anne on the train but they were going to Newcastle to reconnoitre a future ride. Near Eleebana the road was closed and they made us detour up an enormous hill, a granny-gear grade. We lunched at Swansea then attacked the highway through Catho Hill Bay, Cams and Nords Wharf with all those rotten hills. I got miles ahead, on my new bike, but after waiting for 20 minutes at Lizzie Bay Drive, I rode back to find the others wrestling with Kee's back wheel looking for a persistent puncture. Eventually at Doylo, Doug had to call Sue to come and rescue Kee as we had run out of tubes. Kevin and Pete peeled off to their homes and Doug and I finished the ride, which for me was 70km, done at an average of 22.3kmh. A very satisfying and not really hard ride for us super-fit pensioners.
Kee's and Danny's photos are here.
Danny
PS A few of us went on the Sunday ride (20/6) with CCTCC, from Gosford to Brooklyn. Great ride, great day! 45km of hills, then a train ride. So with the Wednesday ride, I have done 157km in the last five days.
Tuesday 15 June 2010 - Tuggerah Lake from Gorokan
Absolutely perfect conditions... Sunny, no breeze, beautiful lake, beautiful friends! It's such a delightful place in the right conditions.
We paddled under the bridge, as planned, around Wallarah Bay and down to Tuggerawong, about 6km. Straight back across the lake for 5km, took about an hour for us at the back. Seemed to take so much longer out in the middle when you don't have nearby scenery to distract you and give a sense of progress.
Twenty-three kayakers each brought enough food for 6 people so it took a while to chew through it all.
Harry has taken some nice photos and they are here.
Danny
Friday 11 June 2010 — Ourimbah Creek
Friday adventures! Eight of our finest paddlers braved the cold weather (8°C) to make the most of the rain-swollen river by seeing how far up it we could go. As it was, we made it as far as there was navigable water, viz miles up. Harry, Doug, Richard, Kee, Hans, Bill, Barry and I selected our shortest, toughest kayaks, which in Kee's case was a 4.4 metre DAG Tiwok plastique, and threaded our way through fallen trees, bushes, half-submerged logs and the occasional rock till there was only sand and not much water. Most of the route provided water at least 1 to 1.5 metres deep. Happy, tired, cold and hungry, but not so wet, we charged back down the creek, straight through obstructions carefully cleared by Doug and Danny with handy gardening implements, to our launch site where we were met by a nice lady (Sue) with a hot cuppa and yummy treats, including two banana bread loaves.
This was adventure kayaking at its best. As Richard said — Who needs Canada or New Zealand? Fun for the over-60s. Love it! Harry's photos are here.
Danny
Tuesday 8 June 2010 - Wyong River, top half
Twenty-six paddlers on a cool, sunny day in beautiful bushland on a swollen river... Bliss! I came late so didn't see most people except as I passed them to attack the first obstacle. Most of them didn't go any further and had gone home by the time we came back, so Hi! Goodbye!
Some usual adventurers like Doug, Richard and Peter stayed behind to look after the others, and missed a great mission up the Zambesi. Andy and Judy made a valiant effort but tandem kayaks couldn't get over some logs. Hope you got back OK. The forward party consisted of me, Barry, Russell, Wayne, Harry and Jenny and we just kept going, it was so much fun. Didn't turn around till 11.30 and didn't get back till 1.00pm.
So many challenges - the flooded river blocked by logs and sticks and vines, but we just kept pushing/smashing our way through. We only did one portage, at the usual place where the big log goes right across the river, fairly early on. Twin logs actually, and I slipped off them and got my leg jammed in between them and fell backwards. Cycling legs are harder to break so a big bruise is the only damage. Wayne got into trouble on the way back and went under. It took us a while to empty out his long sit-in boat. Harry tipped in also, so we had a couple of wet and cold participants. Jenny was right up there with everything we did - well done Jenny!
All the morning tea was gone when we got back but we had our own contributions including two banana breads. We ate all mine and Harry's is saved for Friday. So we didn't go hungry, all you early birds who were worried about us.
Harry and Kee's photos are here.
Danny

And now a report from Kee's viewpoint —
Due to the breakup of the Group, I thought it might be useful to present another side of the report.
It was about 9.15 am when the last of the paddlers (it could be Danny) launched from the Milk Factory. As we paddled, I decided to stay behind to keep the ladies (Sue & Chris) company. The water was a bit muddy, caused by the recent rain, but who cared, when we had the sun, flat water and a comfortable temperature. As I paddled along the side of the creek under the trees, Sue yelled to me to watch for the bird’s nest above my head. How romantic could that be?
I was continuing to enjoy paddling upstream until I heard some commotion. It was Doug going through some fallen branches on the water as though he was collecting fire wood to warm up these rather cold nights. Sue was smiling quietly behind. Whatever it was, it help the waiting kayakers to negotiate through the very narrow gap among the fallen branches. I tried to jump the trunk but was caught mid-way and had to be rescued by Doug.
Along the way upstream, there were more obstacles and the head-on current grew stronger. Don & Merle did some fine crouching to get their double kayak under a few low fallen tree trunks. We moved on sedately, until we reached the fallen branch which demanded kayak portage. There must be about 15 of us and since it was going to be a lengthy operation to go further upstream, we decided to turn back. We then saw Andy & Judy zooming past us in their double Biwok and they were going to take a tricky short cut. 4 of us decided to follow on the belief that whatever the Biwok could do, our shorter kayaks could manoeuvre better. The rest took the longer route back.
After the paddle at the Milk Factory, we had our usual tea/coffee break, provided by our dependable leaders Sue & Doug. We tried to establish who were still on the water with the adventurous troop. We stayed longer than usual, hoping to see the last of the paddlers home.
Peter was sauntering around nervously, wondering if the troop was lost, or had to fight some fresh water crocodiles. However, when we saw Harry and Wayne returned, soaking wet, we then knew that all were safe. Since Danny’s kayak was sitting at the bottom of the driveway, near the water, we also assumed that he had returned safely.
It was another great outing.
Kee
Tuesday 1 June 2010 — Berowra Creek
Perfect paddling conditions and a beautiful venue. This is a spectacular waterway with mountains and bush all around, and amazing sandstone cliffs and caves.
Rob met us at Berowra and took all our lunch and tea/coffee stuff down to Crosslands where we met him later after a 5km paddle. Not only did Rob take the gear down to the picnic area, but carried it all miles to the tables and set it all up for us. And a great feed it was too. Then he took it all back up to Berowra again. Three cheers for you, Rob!
On the way downstream (I thought it was upstream till I just looked at the map) we went into Calabash Bay for a look, and some energetic types went further up this and other tributaries to explore more. It's such a wide river but not very deep, maybe a metre in many places. Twenty paddlers made up the fleet, and were well-rewarded for their efforts.
Mike, Doug. Harry and Kee contributed photos and they are here.There are forty-five of them so captions may be light on.
Danny
Friday 28 May 2010 - Bike ride
A very enjoyable ride was undertaken by ten good men and true, viz. Danny, Doug, Richard, Kevin Mc, Mike, Clarry, Kee, Barry, Peter H and Col F, from Greystaines out to Hoxton Park and back. Total distance 68km. Slight hitch at the start as the gate to the Prospect Reservoir was locked. So Richard took us another way up to the M7 bike path and to the Equestrian Centre for lunch, then to the end of the M7 and back along the Bus T-Way path. There was the Stardust Circus at H Park and a lioness took a serious interest in Richard, but luckily there was a fence in the way. Doug had afternoon tea organised at the finish. Thanks to Richard for organising and leading the ride, and calculating our average age (67). Thanks to Kee for organising the beautiful weather.
Danny
Wednesday 26 May 2010
Just had to tell you about our bike ride today. Rain was forecast and threatening and it was chilly, but 16 riders made the trip from Gorokan to Bateau Bay, for lunch, and return. A couple of light sprinkles but otherwise rain-free for the whole trip, but now at 4.00pm it is pissing down here at Lake Haven. This has been happening for weeks, so let's hope our luck holds out for Friday's big ride.
Cheers Danny
Tuesday 25 May 2010
Big mistake, all you guys who didn't come because of the rain! The rain stopped at 0845 leaving us with a very pleasant day of glassy water, no wind, no rain, no sun, just us and the clouds. As you will see from Harry's photos it was close to a perfect day for paddling, and only eight adventurers had the pleasure. Sue also misjudged and stayed behind to make our lunch.
Despite what was on the program here, we sailed to our left along the shore around Point Frederick, then towards East Gosford, into Erina Creek, then back across The Broad Water to Point Clare, up to the railway bridge then back across to our starting point. Plenty to see everywhere, especially the beautiful houses and boats. For entertainment there was a seaplane performing tricks for us on the water, landing, taking off, whizzing along through the water and flying around in the air. Had us a bit worried sometimes. A lovely outing and further evidence that you decide whether to paddle/cycle or not after you get there. Harry's photos are here.
Danny
Tuesday 18 May 2010
As usual, those who made the effort to come were rewarded with a memorable morning of kayaking. Yes, it was cold (16°C), windy and rainy, but eight staunch paddlers set out around the bottom of Tuggerah Lake, from Picnic Point to Tumbi Umbi Creek. Doug, Danny, Harry, Trevor, Mark, Daryl, Bob and Dennis battled southerly headwinds and rain on the outward leg till we reached the shelter of Tumbi Creek. A very pleasant paddle up and down the creek was the reward, and sunshine and blue sky greeted us as we headed straight back over the lake to the pine trees of Picnic Point. A good tail wind helped but the choppy waters in the middle of the lake made sure it wasn't an easy journey. For those boats without rudders or skegs, it was a struggle to keep pointing in the right direction. Two-foot waves overtook us from behind, trying to turn us around, or over, and as we slid off the back of the waves we seemed to come to a standstill. Fourteen kms all up and a tough workout.
Jill wisely stayed at the carpark and had a little rest, and Graeme and Sharon turned up late then went home again. Sue was off helping her daughter have another baby so there were no sammidges, but Harry brought some banana cake and there was plenty of food to warm us up.
Harry's photos are here.
Danny
Tuesday 11 May 2010 - Fennell Bay
Thirty-five paddlers made it to Blackalls Park for a top morning of paddling and exploration. It's a beautiful area with nice houses and boats, even way up LT Creek where some of us paddled to the very end. Some people paddled down to the Fennell Bay Bridge but a strong breeze had suddenly made the water very choppy so some of us went straight back after a not very long paddle. Hey, we don't have to prove anything, we're just enjoying ourselves. But we did put everything into attacking morning tea, so we redeemed ourselves.
Harry did have a bit of bad luck when he stopped to check directions and couldn't restart his car. NRMA/new battery etc. Other people managed to get lost on the way, but it's not through a lack of directions on the website. It can be tricky, that's true! Anyway Harry must have got home OK as he is already sending me the photos of the day. To see them click here. Rex and Kee also sent photos. They are here.
Thanks to everyone who brought stuff and helped.
Danny
Friday 7 May 2010 - Kayak Klub Bike Klub
Fourteen keen paddlers turned up with their bikes at Graystains to ride to Homebush. Kee started at the wrong end of the ride and finished early. Beautiful weather and a very interesting ride for those who haven't seen this track - bike paths nearly all the way and only a few slight hills. Mike forgot his bike knicks but luckily I had a spare pair for him. The round trip from home took me 3.5 hours, but it was worth it.
Keep a look-out for our next away ride (May 28), starting the same place but going out along the M7 in a loop via the Equestrian Centre . See pic above and click here for another without Richard or Margaret in it. Kee had already gone home.
Thanks Richard for a great ride!
Danny
Tuesday 4 May 2010 - Williams River, Clarence Town
Well worth the hour and a half drive up north, paddling on the Williams River is a delight. Weather perfect, 25 people paddling and some support staff onshore, excellent barbecue lunch...
The water level seemed down a bit on our February excursion, meaning rocks poked up higher, weeds appeared in large areas and the rock weir didn't have enough flow to wash a kayak back down, so that was a bit disappointing. By the time we got back from a 12km paddle at lunch-time, nobody was keen to do any more exploring downstream. We were all pretty hungry by then, and all I, for one, was thinking about was the bbq and Lois's strawberry cheesecake (made by her d-i-l Tina).
Trevor and I explored every little nook and overhanging tree on the way upstream, and in one little backwater a goanna jumped from a low branch onto Trevor's kayak and then into the water. Awesome!
Merle and Rex have given us some photos of the day and they are here.
Carol also took some great photos and they're here.
Danny
April 28-30 Cub Campers Hawks Nest Holiday
Thought we had better put in a report on our trip with the "Club Cub" [Cub camper vans] branch of the Toukley Kayakers.
We had perfect weather and a beautiful place to paddle with crystal clear water, white sand and dolphins. On Wednesday, Chris, Bill, Gail and Glen paddled the northern side of Corrie Island (about 5 - 6km).
Thursday - 8 of us set sail at Hawks Nest boat ramp and headed north toward Myall River "primitive camp". Chris and Bill's son Matt and his fiancée Julie joined us for the paddle. We went up the river with the tide and came back on the outward tide, accompanied by some dolphins along the channel - just magic!!! 11.5kms in total.
Friday - sunny, fine day, a little wind early but that didn't deter us. As Bill and Chris were crossing the channel, an eagle swooped right next to them and caught a fish, wow!! We headed south to Corrie Island, against the tide and wind, stopped on the beautiful white sand to stretch our legs and then the decision was made to round the island - hmmm - further than we had anticipated, given the tide and wind - but we did it!! Out into Port Stevens and around the island, once we were on the nothern side of the island we were in glorious calm, sunny, warm conditions, well worth the "up hill" paddling we seemed to be doing for the most part. We headed back to the boat ramp and had lunch and then headed for home. When we reached Raymond Terrace we hit rain for the first time - perfect timing! See photos here.
Sue
Friday 30 April 2010 - Toowoon Bay
Only Richard Young and I turned up at Toowoon Bay Beach, not surprising given the rain and 16°C temperature. The breeze was slight westerly. It was quite pleasant to start with, as the sea was fairly flat with waves only at the reefs, but an interesting swell to remind us this was the Pacific Ocean. So we paddled around for a while, I went out past the reef into the ocean but it felt the same. We pulled up on the beach near the reef, but we both got rolled by the incoming waves, not big waves but it doesn't take much to pick up a plastic sit-on kayak. My kayak went over the top of me bumping my head, and Richard hurt his knee on his boat. And we both got fully wet. After that, with the windchill factor, we got cold and called it quits. It was exciting and fun, but. We adjourned to Chez Richard for coffee and to thaw out. Hate to think what it's going to be like in the winter.
I could see that on a nice day it would be lots of fun, so we'll do it again one day.
Danny
Tuesday 27 April 2010 - Mannering Park - Lake Macquarie
Twenty-two paddlers left Vales Point Reserve and paddled across Wyee Bay where we were met by Linda who came out from Wyee Point (didn't have a car available). We went up Pourmalong Creek, which was fun, then continued along the shore of Lake Macquarie, up past the Morisset Hostable and some of us went up the Morisset Creek, but it was a creek too far for a few. From there it's a straight line across the lake back to Manno. Perfect conditions again and very enjoyable. About 10km for those who did the full paddle. That's the good thing about kayaking - if it's too hard just wait and the others will come back.
Met some more people who wanted to know what the hell we were doing, Norm and Wendy, who may join us in the future.
See the last news update below, if anyone's interested in a little ocean paddle be at Toowoon Bay at 9.30am on Friday.
Rob and Jocelyn met us when we got back and Rob took some photos and his and Kee's pix are here.
Danny
News Update Friday 23 April 2010
The Friday Skylarkers went for a bike ride today, from Danny's place in Lake Haven Drive, to our paddle venue in Swansea, return. Doug, Danny, Barry, Richard and Wayne did the 65km ride. On the way back we met little Paul from the bike club who had been to Catherine Hill Bay, and we helped him with his puncture. Good hard ride!
Next week we thought we would do an adventure paddle out of Toowoon Bay, onto the ocean, weather permitting. Anyone interested in coming is welcome. Talk to us on Tuesday, and be at Toowoon Bay beach at 0930 next Friday 30 April.
Danny
News Update Thursday 22 April 2010
Arthur Roy (known to us as Harry) has won 2nd prize in the Shoalhaven Nationals photographic competition. To see a website about the Shoalhaven photo comp and the photos, click here. I'm only surprised he didn't win first prize, given the quality of the photos he takes for us.
He also featured in an article in yesterday's Express Advocate after doing well in the Wyong competition. He also scored a prize in a third competition in the same week! Well done, Harry! If someone could bring a clipping of the EA article next week that would be good.
PS Harry's Banana Bread recipe is still here, in PDF. All attempts at this recipe should be brought to paddling on Tuesdays for judging.

We have been worrying about Rob Hellyer since we saw his kayak in the Trading Post, but thankfully he has sent us the following e-mail:
Please know that I will be missing my paddling and being with you all for about another 4 to 6 weeks. I sold my Shrike (all within a week of advertising it in Trading Post!) and will be getting another boat which is being built. (It is not another 5800mm boat to add to our fleet, just 300mm less than the Shrike at 4600mm but 6kg lighter so I can handle it with more ease on and off the car etc)
Meantime I wish all, good paddling, blue skies and little wind.
Regards, Rob
Tuesday 20 April 2010 - Wallarah Creek, San Remo, Budgewoi Lake
Stunning day! Thirty-three paddlers turned up at the bike path at San Remo (crochet classes have been disbanded) for a gentle glide down to the lake and across to the power station channel and Edgewater Park, and around Buff Point, then back across the lake to Goobarabah Point and back around Charmhaven to the creek. Conditions: 25°C, cloudy, no breeze, a spot of rain once... Calm water, reflections, social intercourse, exercise, two toilet stops, bliss!
I can't imagine how it could be any better. At least two people stopped on the path to ask how to join the club. It's obvious to any observer that we're having way too much fun.
Welcome to Wayne's missus Jenny, who although very new still did the whole paddle, over 10km. Well done, Jen!
Top all this off with a delicious morning tea, and yummy sandwiches from Sue and Linda, we deserve this!
Danny
Rex's and my photos are here.
Bike club report - Danny's Melbourne Trip
There is a new report and some photos on the Bike Club Photo Gallery. Click here.
Tuesday 13 April 2010 - Moonee Moonee Creek
Well into April and still beautiful... About 27 people ventured down to the bush at Moonee Moonee Creek (the locality) to paddle up the similarly named waterway. Karool Road is a narrow bush track with no parking and no launching spot, so we parked in the grass right along the road and chucked our kayaks in over a broken brick and concrete rubble embankment. And no toilets either. Or shelter. Despite all that we had an excellent paddle up the creek against the tide (not much) till we got to rocks. A few of us went up Flood Creek, an early tributary, till it ran out after 800 metres or so. Lots of fun! Some keen types paddled down to Piles Creek, so called because of the big rocks where it comes out.
The scenery is very bushy and hilly and rocky. Luckily we were on the water where it's flat and smooth. This venue is only 30 minutes from Toukley which surprised me, so it's not such a hassle. All-in-all, a very pleasant morning.
Danny
PS Harry's pix from last week at Kincumber are here. Today's photos are here.
Tuesday 6 April 2010- Kincumber Creek
Twenty-three paddlers in 22 boats attended at Kincumber Creek in excellent weather conditions. Danny came to see us all even though he had a Melbourne appointment and could not stay for a long paddle. We did 10.6 km by Robert's GPS. Harry had his daughter Debbie as a visitor.
Doug said we were not to go into Cockle bay because the tide was still running out and he thought we may get stuck on the way back. This was very sensible advice as it was very shallow at the bay entrance. Glen, Gail, Bill and Chris had some great photos of their recent trip to Dunns Swamp in their Cub trailers.
Doug had a great time in Queensland and had an interesting video to show which included Doug catching lots of fish.
Good to see Ron was back paddling. Ann Daley was back paddling as well, after her cycling holiday in New Zealand.
We had a delicious morning tea to finish a most enjoyable paddling experience with happy, friendly people. Harry's photos are here.
Richard Young
Tuesday 30 March 2010 - Dora Creek
Rain deterred many but the staunch twelve came anyway and, no surprise, had a good time. While the rain was very light it didn't stop for the whole day so we finished up having morning tea in the rain which didn't seem to faze anyone.
We paddled upstream and kept taking the right fork when we found one, finally running out of time before we reached the end of the water, so there's plenty of scope for further adventures in this fabulous river. Maybe we should find a launch spot further upstream so we can reach the upper stretches. Plenty of birdlife, such as geese and a beautiful Azure Kingfisher (rufous belly).
Some entertainment was provided by a group of little schoolkids in canoes, 3 per boat, who just wandered around in the middle of the river. All did well except for the ones in the canoe pushed off the bank by the teacher which immediately capsized throwing them all in the water.
We stopped going upstream when Bob told us we had done exactly 6 km, so we went back the same distance. Paddling in the rain on a warm day can be more fun than battling strong winds or hot conditions, so I don't know why many regulars opted out. The only reason we have ever cancelled a scheduled paddle is because the wind was too strong to get off the shore. Twice, I think, in 15 months.
Harry's and Kee's photos are here.
Danny
PS Harry's Banana Bread recipe is still here, in PDF. We desperately needed some today!
Tuesday 23 March 2010 - Lower Wyong River
We just get so used to this beautiful weather, we forget that it will be freezing and snowing in a couple of months. Twenty-two kayakers made the effort today for a very pleasant trip down to the lake where we saw a dead stingray, and some swans. Doug and Sue were back so there was no hanky-panky. Doug has managed to obtain a key to the toilet from the council, to relieve the pressure.
It's nearly a 12 km trip with Charlton Island adding a River Caves dimension. Good exercise and very sociable! Harry's photos are here.
Danny
Tuesday 16 March 2010 - Ourimbah Creek
Absolutely perfect day for kayaking, or anything really. When we got down to the lake, the water was so beautiful many people just headed out towards The Entrance, some not stopping until they got to Picnic Point. It wasn't the same without Dougie, no discipline... No breeze, just blue sky and glassy water - stunning! Others stopped as they should have at Chittaway Point and headed back up to the weir. Not sure whether they all made it, as it's a long way, so well done to those in Kee's photos at the weir. Some of the lake-crossers then also went up to the weir making a total trip calculated by me with a ruler and UBD at 16km round trip. Fantastic effort. Among those was Peter trying out a new kayak of Scott's. It went so well and so much easier to paddle than his old Minnow. Now he's got to save up for it.
Not sure how many of us there were, I couldn't get everyone in sight at one time. Welcome to new paddler Carolyn. A delicious m/t was provided by us, though the late finishers didn't get much. Thanks to Bill and Chris for doing the honours with the hot water etc. Kee's photos are here.
Danny
Wednesday 10 March 2010 - update
Many people asked about Harry's Banana Bread recipe. It's originally from the Women's Weekly and is here, in PDF. All entries will be judged at morning tea.
Tuesday 9 March 2010 - Wyong River
Another fantastic day on the water — warm, sunny, light breezes, thirty-two people paddling... Wyong River is a lovely bushy place to enjoy nature and relax. The only thing that bugs me is all the lantana on the banks. Perhaps we could take some saws and some Round-up and kill some of it. I'm a Wyong Landcare guy so I'm up for it.
Harry's photos are here. Anyone else who has photos is welcome to submit them, see e-mail address at top.
Danny
Tuesday 2 March 2010 - Wallarah Creek
Another very pleasant excursion up one of our favorite waterways. A cool cloudy day to mark the beginning of Autumn, but improving to perfect as we went. Twenty paddlers enjoyed the adventure which included a couple of limbos under fallen tree-trunks. There were some close calls but nobody actually fell in. In Rob's case this was due to a grim determination not to let go of the log even as his kayak drifted away listing badly to port. Harry has some good pictures and so has Kee. Click on the Photo Gallery button at the top.
Kee has his new kayak which is even better than his old one. He has too much money. His wife Mandy sent us a beautiful Malaysian noodle dish for m/t.
The plan is to slowly go around the lakes so next week is the next river going south - the mighty Wyong! Should be a delightful outing.
Danny
Tuesday 23 Feb 2010 - Davistown, Brisbane Water
With about 17 people we were a bit fewer than usual, although 12 months ago we would have thought that was excellent. A nice venue at Davistown, parking, toilets, picnic tables, grass, ducks...
Some people came late, but Mike was there waiting for us, champion bloke! Not long after we started, a fierce wind sprang up (see Seabreeze® graph below) 20-25 knots, so we curtailed the trip somewhat. In the lee of islands it was good, but in the open it was every person for him or herself (whew!). The smart people came back early, but others, like Harry, Peter and Joanne, were nearly an hour later getting back. Despite the challenges, it was still a lot of fun and great exercise.
Welcome to Dennis, who came from Pitt Town near Windsor, so that's the end of any complaints about distance from home for the rest of us.
By-the-way, Merle left a chair, freezer bag and water bottle at Davistown venue. Does anyone have them? They probably blew away.
Harry's photos are here.

Danny
Thursday 18 Feb 2010 - Clarence Town
Williams River — what a beautiful place! About 20 people were there first thing Thursday, some having stayed the night, others arriving early this morning. This is quite a big river with rapids about 6km upstream of the caravan park where we stayed, and a weir too far downstream to reach, but keeping the water level high and the water fresh. There were a few little tributaries for us Skylarkers to explore and plenty to see on the shores. Doug always paddles as close to the left side as possible (and I mean going under overhanging trees) so we don't miss anything interesting. I (Danny) did this once too often and got caught on some pointy sticks and finished up in the drink.
When we reached the rapids, the paddlers in the long narrow fibreglass kayaks watched while we (Doug, I, Richard, Russell and Glen), on our short plastiques, paddled up to the rocks then disembarked and dragged our boats over the slippery rocks and up through the raging torrent. We then climbed back aboard and let the rushing water carry us down through the rocks and back onto the flat river. Sometimes we got stuck and went back for another go. Doug, who's up for anything, joined in even though his kayak is a sit-in Minnow-type vessel, full of cameras, GPS etc. Richard and I demonstrated what can happen if you get stuck on the rocks with the boat suddenly filled with water. Luckily the sit-ons with their scupper (drain) holes were soon tipped out, but I hate to think what would have happened to Doug's kayak in the same situation. Richard and I both lost our water bottles, washed away never to be seen again. Russ has taken many photos which will be available asap. Anyway it was heaps of fun. Suzanne got too close to the whirlpools below the rocks and was chucked in, but she was back on again laughing, and dripping, very quickly. A check on Darryl's GPS later showed we paddled about 13km there and back.

After lunch seven of us headed downstream for a couple of hours, exploring several creeks and waterways on the way. We were so impressed at how beautiful this river is - rolling green hills, big trees, water lillies, cows on the bank... Bliss!
Just before we set out Darryl gave me some money ($60) which I stuck down the front of my wet-suit shorts, but when we got back it was gone. I remembered where I lost it (won't say how), at the top of a creek near a little weir, about half an hour's paddle back down the river. Douggie always has a great sense of where he is , and explained that the creek was the same one that runs down beside the caravan park, so I set off, in my wet shorts and rashie, and sensible shoes, through about 800 metres of farmland, over or through about 12 barbed wire and electric fences, long grass and prickles, threatening bulls, back to where we had been, and found the money in the bulrushes. Wasn't sure whether to be pleased or annoyed with myself.
The caravan park (Williams River, Shire of Dungog) was excellent, with a Lions Park next door with perfect barbecues and picnic seating, and toilets. The cabins were nice though many of us camped on the flood plain near the river. The views were stunning everywhere. Clarence Town (named after Clarrie) is a quaint little place with a minimum of facilities, basically a pub, a baker's, hardware store, grocer's and a bloke who makes kayaks (need a report on this, someone).
Clarrie and Margaret went on a 40km bike ride on the Wednesday arvo.
We will be back. Four Stars.
Doug and Clarrie's photos here.
Another paddle took place on Friday morning without my knowledge. Will the people involved please submit a report by COB today. You know who you are.
Danny
Tuesday 16 Feb 2010 - Budgewoi
With a forecast of SW winds 20-30 knots, we weren't sure whether Munmorah Lake was a good idea, but seeing we were all there, we decided to give it a go. I counted 27 paddlers, not counting Mike, who went home to get his seat, and Joanne, who was late again as she doesn't know the area and got lost.
So with a beautiful tailwind we headed down towards Elizabeth Bay. About two thirds of the way there somebody must have realised we would have to paddle back against this lovely breeze so we turned around. Yep, tough going! 15-20 knots (see Seabreeze® graph below) with choppy waves. My kayak has the same aerodynamics as an inflatable marker buoy so it was hard work, but fun. Some of us then continued around the lake clockwise towards Halekulani, while others went into Budgewoi Lake and visited the creek in the golf course. We all finished up having a good paddle and earned our lovely morning tea/lunch which was greatly appreciated.
Patrick fell off his Escape twice (I feel vindicated!). We had a few newbies today, so welcome to Graham and Sharon, Tony, and Greg. Sharon couldn't work out her paddle, but eventually came to grips with it and enjoyed herself. But she is now looking for a left-handed paddle so if anyone knows ...
Harry's and Russell's photos are here.
Next week is Davistown so brace yourselves for an awesome paddle.
See some of you at Clarencetown. Yay!!
Danny

Tuesday 9 Feb 2010 - Gwandalan
After a week of rain and horrid weather, today was picture perfect (as we knew it would be – it’s Tuesday!) and the number of keen paddlers increased again. Today we had 34 paddlers in 29 kayaks on the lovely Crangan Bay (Gwandalan) - well, I say lovely until a few of us saw a shark, aghhhhhh!
That is a first for this group. Ignorance is bliss. For those that didn’t see it, they were none the wiser. Unfortunately, I did and it made me feel more than a tad insecure.
Our fearless leader, Doug, was determined to cross the bay to Nords Wharf, so, with safety in numbers (or so he told me, otherwise that shark was going to get gravel rash before it got me, I was outta there!) we crossed and had a glorious paddle right around the western side of Crangan Bay and then back across to the boat ramp. So many varieties of fish could be easily seen in the clear water (notice I didn’t mention that shark!?!?) and just before we headed back some of our adventurers went up a creek and saw a huge school (?) of eels. What an amazing sight!
We had morning tea at Suzanne and Russell’s new house overlooking the water. Most delightful! Many thanks to Suzanne and Russell for welcoming all of us to their home, again (this could become a habit, a very pleasant habit).
Doug’s GPS says we paddled 10.6km although as usual not everybody paddled the whole distance.
Our hat/cap order will be ready for next Tuesday. The cost is $11 each.
Condolences go to Robyn and Warwick on the news they received while out on the bay today, that Robyn’s brother in law, Ashley, had passed away suddenly. We all send you our thoughts.
Sue
Russell's photos now visible here.
Tuesday 2 Feb 2010 — Dora Creek
Thirty-three paddlers including 5 new people, on 29 kayaks, paddled against the easterly breeze down Dora Creek to Lake Macquarie. Most went into Lake Eraring and some even circumnavigated that quite large lagoon while others hung around near Pipers Point. I headed off towards Splingle Shitters Point to try myself out in the rough stuff, but it wasn't as hairy as it looked, quite good fun really.
We had a pleasant run back before a 15 knot ESE breeze (see Seabreeze® graph below) with distances ranging from 7 km to close to double that for the energetic ones.
Welcome to Barry from Newc, Joanne from Ourimbah, Hans and Jenny from the Toukley bike club, and Col from the Toukley sailing club. Most were pretty new at this but all enjoyed themselves. On Sunday Col fell off his catamaran on Lake Tuggers, and spent some time lost at sea before anyone spotted him. He's a great believer in life jackets now.
The only thing wrong with our launch venue here is a complete lack of facilities, but we've been spoiled by our other venues. Harry's and Russell's photos are here.
Danny


Tuesday 26 January 2010 — Tascott
Our contribution to the Australia Day celebrations was a great success with at least 32 kayaks putting in an appearance. The weather was very warm and sunny. Progress on Murphys Bay, the Woy Woy Channel and Paddys Channel was tricky at times with many power boats surging past providing ocean-like conditions with the waves - fun for some and scary for others. Janaya freaked and turned back, probably a good decision as things only got worse after that. A couple of new people today, Alan, and Ian from the bike club - welcome you guys!
Saw Mel and Anton from C-Kayaks having a rare day off.
The Tascott venue has many benefits — showers, toilets, grass, parking, shelter, easy to find... Another beautiful day in the most enjoyable sport. Distance covered today: 8500 metres. Merle's and Russell's photos are here.
Danny
Thursday 21 Jan 2010 — Club Notice
Hey! Kee is selling his hardly-used tandem kayak. See details here.
Also a message from Kee:
Attached is a photo of me after my hand operation yesterday. In addition to trying to cure my locking middle fingers of both hands, I have asked for some additional bionic muscles for paddling (not sure if he did this). I shall be off paddling for a couple of weeks. (See Kee's photo here. Click on Back Arrow to return here.)
Tuesday 19 January 2010 — Wyong River lower half
A picture perfect day saw 23 paddlers in 21 kayaks on Wyong Creek and paddled 10.5km. The scenery was as picturesque and interesting as usual, however it is different to last week on the other end of the same creek. There is always something interesting to see on the creeks. We were joined by yet another new face today, so welcome to Mark, from Newcastle. We mustn't have been too scarey last week either, as Ron made a reappearance.
(Today's photos are here.)


Now, "Toukley Kayakers" hats and caps...
Today we had some samples of the hats and caps for your choice, if you wish to purchase one. The price will be determined by the number purchased, however, they should be in the range of $10 - $15 each (that includes the embroidery). I have included some photos of the hats/caps available (modelled by a very reluctant model, above). I would like final numbers by Tuesday 2 Feb. "Sizes?" I hear you ask, well, caps are one size fits all and are adjustable; surf hats with adjustable cord under chin are in 55; 57; 59; 61cm; bucket style hat with white piping around brim are in S/M (approx 58/59cm) and L/XL (approx 60/61cm). The choice is yours. Just measure around your head with a tape measure (no, you boys, not a steel tape, a dressmaker's tape) to get an idea which size and which hat/cap would be best for you. I have 22 requests from today, so hopefully by the 2nd Feb everyone should know about the hats and have let me know. If you could also spread the word to those who may not have access to this website, so no one misses out that would really like one. Our email address is: suendoug@dodo.com.au, so just send through your choices and sizes and I will take it from there. Once the order is placed the Cap Factory will order in the caps and hats and should be all embroidered and ready within 1 - 2 weeks.
Sue
Tuesday 12 Jan 2010 - Wyong River
Another perfect day in paradise. Twenty-six people came with their kayaks and we paddled up to the weir with optional excursions up Porters Creek and Deep Creek. This didn't take long enough so some of us went further downstream and around the charming Charlton Island so we finished up paddling for miles (about 10km for some).
Harrison, 9, brought his grandparents (see him above) which was just as well as Trevor had to tow the tyke back to the finish.
I had a swim above the weir, on purpose, as it was over 30°C and it was very refreshing. Harry has sent all his photos and they are here. Russell's pix are here.
The day didn't end well for me and Mike as I ran over his kayak in the rush to leave. He says he can fix it. I was going to the dentist where it took them an hour to extract my favorite tooth for $590. So that was my punishment I suppose for being careless.
Danny
Friday 8 January 2010 Adventure Club
Doug and I launched at the Chittaway shops on Ourimbah Creek, and paddled up to the weir. We dragged our kayaks over the wall and rocks and kept going as far as we could, another 2 km. We struck a few hazards, like fallen trees and submerged logs but it all adds to the fun. It's a beautiful creek up further, very natural, plenty of bird life, cicadas, water dragons, fish... One low tree had three fledgling darters (snake-necks) which are very timid, and as we approached they drop into the water like sacks of flour, only to surface 20 - 30 metres away with just the head poking up for a look.
The fish are amazing - in some areas the water is thick with them, and as we glide past they suddenly make a splashy getaway all around us. When the ducks or herons fly low over the water, all the fish scramble for the deep, so when you see a bird flying up the river, the water underneath explodes with fleeing fish, looking much like the duck is strafing the surface with a machine gun. Very funny!
This part of the river is not navigable by any kayak over 3.5 metres, and sit-ons are much easier to get out of and back in again, so most of you will never be able to do it. Sorry.
Danny
Tuesday 5 Jan 2010, Tuggerah Lake, ex Canton Beach
Beautiful morning, 29°C, light breeze, sunny... We just paddled down the east side of the lake for an hour and 20 mins, had a rest, then came back. Only the breeze had picked up to 15 knots NE, so the trip back for me at least was one hour 45, and it was hard going, with waves breaking over the front of the kayak to keep me cool.
Some amazing number of people turned up, about 32, with 6 tandem kayaks. Not everyone did the full trip, which was about 14km, and I don't blame them.
I must say it was very relaxing having our lunch at the sailing club, all facilities, chairs for everyone, balcony with great view over the lake, so all those who got back early (long sit-ins, and tandems) were able to relax on the balustrade and watch those slow-pokes struggle back, while shouting words of encouragement to them (like, slacker!).
See the Seabreeze® graph below. Select from Harry's or Russell's photos here.
Danny
Sunday Moonlight Bike Ride 3 Jan 2010
While the weather looked like it might spoil the night, it didn't. The inclement weather didn't deter the eight hearty club members that turned up for the ride.
A balmy night, no rain, no full moon for that matter either, lots of cloud cover made for a very enjoyable ride. We left the Co-op just after 7pm all decked out with our head and tail lights and glow sticks on various parts of our bikes. There was very little traffic and we were mostly on the cycleway which made the ride a whole lot safer . We encountered a rather large water hazard on Minnesota Road, but we all survived.
A cheer squad was at Woongarrah, lead by Harrison, Jill and Trevor's grandson, to cheer us on. We tried to get a reaction from the Lonards, but they pretended not to hear us.
By the time we arrived at Buff Point it was dark but we were well equipped with lights so it wasn’t a problem at all.
Between Noraville and Canton Beach a fine mist of rain fell, which was quite refreshing, the only rain we had all evening.
We arrived back at the Co op at 9.20pm, safe and sound and all the more satisfied that we all had completed and thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Not one casualty.
Don and Sue were waiting for us with coffee and cake to top off a great night.
The photos are here.
Doug
Friday 1 January 2010, Ourimbah Creek Moonlight Paddle
With rain in the afternoon and forecasts of showers and storms, we could only turn up and hope for the best. And the best is what we got. Yes, it was cloudy. No, we didn't see the moon, but everything else was perfect. Twenty-seven paddlers turned up to try their luck. The temperature was about 27°C, no wind, and cloudy daylight. We paddled down to the lake which was amazingly tranquil and beautiful, with pelicans and other birds our only company. I hope the photos can do it justice. There was just enough breeze at this stage to cool us down as we paddled back upstream into the most glorious sunset, with blue sky patches, white cloud, pink and grey clouds, all reflected in the glassy water... We went up under the road bridge and waited till it got dark, then paddled back downstream to the Park, all coloured glow-sticks, navigation lights, bike lamps, torches. It must have looked amazing from the many back porches where the ordinary people were having their tea.
Top all this off with a supper comprising all the best left-overs from last night, using the excellent facilities at Sunshine Park, and we finish up with a fantastic night out. Many thanks to Sue and Doug for organising everything, and to everyone else for coming despite the dim prospects. See Doug's and Russell's photos here. Thanks so much you guys!
Danny
Russell's photos of Swansea 15/12/09 have arrived, including the amazing pipe crawl, and can be seen here.
Also last week at Elizabeth Bay - check out the photo gallery.



For earlier reports, 1 July 09 to 31 December 09 Click Here