Friday 29 December 2017 Wapengo float

High tide was at 5.33am this morning and El Capitano determined that high tide at Wapengo Bridge would be approximately 2 hours later. When we reached the bridge at 6.30am the tide was still coming in. We started unpacking the boats and were soon joined by S&V, not long after the Ngairin contingent arrived, after leaving a car at Bithry Inlet (for this was to be a one way paddle). The contingent, D'd, Col and Mais joined in unpacking the last of the boats.

By the time we took to the water at 6.55am (yes, ahead of schedule once more!) the tide was slack.
Once more D'd was really helpful - oh how the CKC loves her

We set off down the creek

But only got 100 metres of so when L pulled in to send D'd to his car to collect the paddle float

 Off again, and you can see why I called this a float, the outgoing tide swept us gently along

As we took in the sights

Time for the rudders to be deployed

I really like this one too

As we neared the lake we slowly picked up speed. Col taking it easy

Past a quaint oyster shed

And on into the lake where we were swept along at a brisk pace through the oyster beds, needing only the ocassional corrective stroke (well, for those of us without rudders). We disturbed lots of fish and what I thought were baby stingrays, but Col tells me are skates. With his paddle, L tried to dig up a bluish mollusc thingie that squirted red ink.

The end of the paddle hoves into sight

The only time we had to put some effort in was when crossing a bit of rough and rushing water caused by the outgoing tide to land at Bithry Beach.

D'd, V and I were left to get the boats from the beach to the carpark while the others drove to the bridge to retrieve the cars and boat trailer.  Even with the wheels it was really hard work. It was thank god for D'd again and we nearly had the last two boats off the beach when the others came back.

Once the boats were packed we had a quick rest and debrief at the picnic table. A lovely time was had by all; the river section was more attractive than expected,even the lake section was nice, only a few drops of the forecast rain fell our way, and the overcast sky kept the temperature down and humidity bearable.

S&V had things to do and hit the road and L&I wangled an invitation - invited ourselves really - to Ngairin for not only bacon and eggs but lightly caramelised tomatoes and onions as well - YUM. A perfect end to a v. pleasant paddle.

Trip Notes
Put in: Wapengo Bridge, Bermagui Tathra Rd
Take out: Bithry Inlet, opposite car park
7.00km
1hr 35mins (approx 5km per hour)
High tide at entrance: 5.33am
High tide at Wapengo Bridge: 6.55am  , 1hr22min later