Trip report
| 2007-03-03 | Bibbie Cave and Kayaking at Myall Lakes |
| Trip report: | |
Bibby Harbour Caves and Escape Sydney WeekendMike yet again was able to borrow some canoes for the payment of “supply and install” a new gooseneck to the trailer (which we also borrowed). The canoes were picked up on Thursday by Mike and Rick and most of us drove up on Sat morning to the Violet Hill NPWS camping area on the west side of the Myall Lakes system. Jon and James were in the process of packing up tents as we arrived and we were soon unloading boats and trying to shove everything in. Mike and Jo, having the excuse of a few late nights in a row are still driving up as we set paddle for distant shores with mutterings of “ aaarrr, aaaarrr” and “bloody parrot” and something about the sexual peccadillo’s of ears. We put in for a stretch and a swim at Tickerabit, most of us having got there in a reasonable straight line ! After ample frolicking and munchies and sand up the crack we headed across the bay to our campsite. The water has lost its glassy look and a slight breeze has brought out some bumps – chop I believe is the parlance. Our camping spot has a few boats and other campers already there but we make ourselves at home with another couple of kayakers who have been out for a week. Mike and Jo are soon sighted across the bay on their way to join us, we send the boys out to attract their attention. After tentage and lunch we head off to Bibby Harbour Cave and when we round the point we find that the breeze has picked up somewhat and is getting stiffer all the time. It is hard work driving the canoes into the wind. After a false landing and search, we disembark near the cave and generally have a “pooped “ rest stop. The low crawl way entrance is at the back of a small quarry . On this occasional it contained a large snake in the middle of the passage about 10m in. Graham and Rick sounded the retreat. After a bit of discussion another brave soul entered and our little friend had found a nice spot under a ledge about 400 off the centre of the track. Don’t tell James …. He hates snakes…… The cave is low, muddy and tightish in spots and surprisingly lengthy. Apart from the reptilian inhabitants there is little to note. On the way back to camp the wind is stronger again and most people have difficulty maintaining a straight course downwind. In nautical terms I believe it could be classed as a stiff breeze with occasional white caps. More watery frolicking ensues in our sheltered little bay. Night, when it comes, is accompanied by the drone of mozzie squadrons, a full moon over the yard arm, Grahams cough and the sound of cross cut saws. Another beautiful day. The breeze is soon up but not in our little Cove, Graham and Murray borrow two kayaks and play in the bay. I take them further out to the chop and breeze and Murray rolls over. He can now do a deep water re-entry. Lazily paddle across the bay and have lunch and yet another frolics. The wind is at its worst as we leave and head downwind. Murray in Kim’s kayak puts up a sail. It is very effective. Another swim before we pack up and head off to find an arvo tea spot. A great weekend Report by: Rick | |
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Canoeing - Myall Lakes / Bibby Harbour Cave 2007
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Myall Lakes
1st rest break
Evening
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