Recreational Paddle to Nelligen—February 2010

Bob, Alan and myself joined the Bay Adventure Kayakers for their time trials on Saturday morning. The weather was perfect—not too hot, no wind, tides weren’t an issue. There was a good turn out with a large variety of boats, unfortunately for Bob and myself, there were no other sea kayaks. Still someone has to come last! Alan paddled his way to a creditable 3rd place. While having a very enjoyable 2nd breakfast at one of the local cafes, a regular event after the time trials, we were also joined by Adrian and Rae from BGCC and got some tips for our ‘tour’ from the locals. We then made our way back to the Riverside Tourist Park at the Bay where tents were pitched and plans made.
We’d paddle up the Bay to Cullendulla Creek and explore it. However a very low tide made it to difficult to get into the creek so we decided to paddle out to Snapper Island and find somewhere for lunch. We were able to land on the Island and find a log to perch on while enjoying our sandwiches and fruit. As the weather was just glorious we decided to head across to one of the many beaches and go for a swim. The water temp was lovely. Feeling refreshed and invigorated the boats just headed over to the bar to play on the waves. Luckily for us paddlers the water was not deep and the waves were only small, although Bob does tell of one that was obviously swollen to great heights, driven by the tsunami coming in from Chile, which grabbed his boat and flung him bodily out of his Mirage. Alan has suggested he take us to learn some sea kayaking skills—how could you have a sea kayak (namely a Mirage 580) and have it never been in salt water?!

We returned to the camp site and after a shower and fresh clothes enjoyed some wine, nibbles and pleasant conversation, after which we wandered into the Bay for fish and chips then back ‘home’ for more wine and tall stories.

Sunday morning was overcast with some light drizzle—as a result Russell and Carolyn were the only BAK members to venture forth with us for another paddle. This time we started at Nelligen and paddled down to Big Island then crossed over into the Buckenbowra River, following it as it wound its way to Runnyford. Russell had arranged permission for us to stop on private land for our lunch, which turned out to be a lovely spot ( the grazing cows decided to leave us to it and left in a hurry), we were met there by local BAK paddlers Liz and Steve and their children, who joined us for a chat. We were also passed by about 15 kayakers, including Roger (BGCC member), from the Eurobodella paddling group who are based in Tuross and paddle regularly throughout the local area.
Bob and I had swapped boats for the day with Adrian and Rae, so we were in their Cabo double, which was fun - harder work than our boats, but it bought back (fond?) memories of the Murray!

By the time we returned to Nelligen we’d done about 23k. After packing boats away and cleaning up we all headed back to the ACT, stopping in Braidwood for a cuppa.
It was an enjoyable weekend, good weather, great company and we were on the water – what more could you ask for?? Next time, join us ..... keep an eye out on the web site and e-mails for more recreational paddles.
Thanks to BAK for the friendly reception at the time trials and to Russell and Carolyn for sharing their knowledge and waterways!
Patricia