Date/Time
Date(s) - 24/08/2024
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Categories
Primary Paddle
This trip is on the Minnamurra River starting at the James Oates boat ramp at the river mouth (near intersection of Charlee Ave and Federal St). This location can be busy and there is a back-up start point at the Trevethan Reserve boat ramp where Riverside Drive crosses the Minnamurra River. The launch site is approximately a 90 minute, 100km drive from Tempe.
The river is tidal with a gentle nature and is best paddled around high tide. It is bordered with mangroves and a little under 2km from the start, on river left, is a sizeable mangrove covered creek that is worth exploring (Rocklow Creek). This can add up to 2km to the round trip depending on the tide level.
The river bends passing under a rail bridge and Riverside Drive. After a stretch where the river runs alongside Riverside Drive it bends again and narrows eventually passing under A1 Freeway (Princess Hyw). At this point the river is narrow and runs through rolling farmland for about 1km to a low road bridge. Paddling past this road bridge is only possible in short, plastic, boats and whilst pretty is characterised by rock obstacles requiring portage. This float plan is for trips up to the low road bridge only.
Away from the primary launch site the river is quiet and the only watercraft likely to be encountered are other kayaks and tinnies. The reserve at the primary launch site is very popular with families and there are likely to be many other kayaks close by. There are several sandy beaches along the riverbank. About around 6km is a grassy clearing. Tidal flow may be encountered, and strong winds can make it hard work for beginners.
The paddle is a return trip so no car shuttle is required. There is a good-sized car park each launch site.
This trip is best suited for seakayaks or canoes.
Please register by the EventBright link below. Don’t just rock-up:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/river-canoe-club-28111898381