Sunday 22 September 2024 Bermagui River and Nutleys Creek

 As a gusty wind change was forecast for 1.00pm we planned to be up at the confluence to sit it out while we lunched. 

Setting off at 10.10am we headed upstream and took various routes through the mangroves before crossing the river to sneak up behind the oyster leases.

Once past the campground we had the river to ourselves as we cruised up to the confluence.  There we had a quick leg stretch before heading up Nutleys Creek.

No kingfishers today however we spotted two immature Sea Eagles flying down the creek and landing in a tree not far ahead. Fish spotting was the go today - as we disturbed heaps of schools on our journey up and down the creek.

 A 1.8m high tide allowed us to venture far up the enchanting Nutleys Creek.

A bit of chaos as we made the turn to head back down the creek.

During lunch back at the confluence, we had the rare privilege of seeing a Pardalote fly in and out of its nest several times. Each time it flew in like a rocket, would stall at the last second, tuck it wings in tight and dive into the hole without landing.  

Nest entrance

We set off back down river as the gusty winds of the change slackened off, being ably assisted by the now outgoing tide.

Back down river various routes were once again taken, some less hazardous than others. Regrouping, we paddled the last couple of kilometres, ending the outing at 3.25pm 

Trip Notes:

High Tide at entrance: 11.15am 1.8ms

Put In/Take Out: Slipway Beach

18.4kms

5hrs 15mins