You never quite know who might turn up on a paddle. Today was no exception with people converging on Mission Point from four different start places. We opted to launch from the boat ramp at the end of Kal-ma-kuta Drive as it has plenty of parking, a loo and a beach for all tides. We radioed our left bank presence to the right and merged with the tail of the group around the wreck of the Avon.
Arranged as an anniversary paddle of the Rosco Group it was an easy paddle up the passage with the flood tide. It started out as a grey day with soft misty rain. The group soon strung out with Robin, Brian and Sal in the lead. A few dolphins, one with a chunk missing from its dorsal fin surfaced nearby. Sea eagles circled
and had slow motion dogfights amongst themselves. Carol's radio call regarding cake pulled the remaining group up short and they made a beeline for Poverty Point like chooks after a grain call. Sensible chooks as the cake was superb. We also demolished a custard filled number whipped up by Ted.
Poverty Point was new to us. We didn't remember the 12 campsites at Mission Point despite having camped there some years ago with the West End Club. The higher numbered campsites are south of the day use area, generally smaller, shadier, sheltered more mossies and anointed with a disconcerting amount of horse poo. Today Granny Sal was the most senior veteran from the past. Looking positively punk Sal was sporting a number 3 for a cause. The water was turbid but enjoyable for a swim. Seeing the gorgeous campsites and the Glass House Mountains I felt some regret at having chosen to return that afternoon.
Six headed back and went down towards Toorbul, coming across Robyn just outside of Donnybrook where some of us added an icecream to the energy equation. With the ebb tide it was keep to the channel from where Steve, Kylie and Tom took their leave to
Torbul. Ted and I thought we would have enough water to continue east of the Avon. Mark thought otherwise and knew we were in trouble when he hit 11kph in the channel. Well, I was in trouble, up to mid shins in it while Ted did a JC. Put paid to the
icecream and meeting the other three for a coffee at the service
station.
It was a great paddle and good to see many of the current regulars - we thought of you Dave. It also reminded me of how much I missed the water and how vulnerable such beautiful places
can be to the actions of so few.
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