Kayaking
in Tuross
Tuross
Lake (flatwater)
Up
to 25km circumnavigation.
Plenty
of paddling options, especially for beginner/novice paddlers,
on this generous lake with its protected places scattered with
estuaries and islands. You are likely to see a wide variety of
birdlife, kangaroos and even emus.
Take a map with you for longer routes or exploring. Launch into
shallow water near the boat ramp on Nelson Parade, or hire kayaks
and canoes from Tuross Boatshed on Nelson Parade and launch from
there.
An
18km round trip could take you north from the boat ramp, around
Horse Island, then west up the estuary to and around Borang Lake,
returning on the southern side of Horse Island. From the same
launch spot up the river to Comerang is approximately 25km.
A
pleasant two hour paddle takes you around the south side of Horse
Island then the east and west side of Cambathin Island, across
to Deuaumba Island past the old bridge, returning to the launch
point via the main channel. Waterside cafés and restaurants
with landing spots near Tuross Boatshed, picnic tables, playground
and toilets nearby.
Coila
Lake at Tuross Head (flatwater)
Up to 18.5km circumnavigation.
Paddle
any distance, or up to 18.5km to circumnavigate the lake and under
the highway bridge into Coila Creek at the northern end. Stay
near the sheltered shores on windy days as it can get quite choppy.
An easy shallow launch opposite the Tuross Sport and Recreation
Centre off Hector McWilliam Drive, Tuross Head, where you will
find parking and a BBQ/picnic area with playground and toilets.
The
info below is provided in good will and is a general overview
only -
it is
up to the individual to determine their own capability and risk
- if you are unsure of how to prepare for a paddle then consider
searching out some internet Kayaking sites such
as
NSW
Sea Kayak Club.
Ideally
don't paddle alone
If
you are new to Kayaking and unsure then lessons and tours are
available:
Sea
Kayaking NSW - Kayak Tours, Lessons & Journeys - 0400
184 034
Skill
level
Tuross Lake provides confidence building opportunities for novice
paddlers of moderate fitness to enjoy mostly shallow water,
sheltered from prevailing winds by numerous islands.
Distance and Time
Paddlers choose various routes among Tuross estuary’s features
to suit the time available.
A popular route is at http://www.turosshead.org/Pages/KayakingGoogleMap.htm
Maps
pick up a copy of the CMA Bodalla map 8925-4-N 1:25000.
or
Click
here for a Kayaking map of Tuross and Coila
Kayaking
Map of Tuross and Coila Lakes with Distances
(back to back) and
Split
Thanks
to Henry Kark for providing this map
Safety
Mobile phone and VHF radio coverage is good. Tuross Head Marine
Rescue Squad
[VRA - 4473 8111 or 4473 8911] is located on the water’s
edge, near the boatsheds and the launch point. Kayaking can
be dangerous so look out for your own safety and the safety
of others at all times. If unsure - then just don't kayak....
and seek out professional training until you are sure that you
can paddle safely.
Launch Point
Latitude 36.04.80; Longitude 150.07.30. This easy access point
is off Trafalgar Road / Nelson Parade at Lavender Bay, between
Tuross Head boat ramp, the VRA and boatsheds. Ample, shady parking
is available alongside the shallow, sandy edge.
General Description
Tuross Lake estuary covers a large area with many islands [mostly
National Park] where Tuross River joins the ocean.
It offers a superb opportunity for kayakers to enjoy the Broadwater,
the Fourways, the river, tranquil island channels, island picnic
areas and / or coffee and meals beside the water at boatshed
cafes. Tree lined shores and birdlife contribute to the visual
experience, with watery reflections and mountain ranges providing
the backdrop.
Flora
Casuarina forest predominates around shorelines with varied
East coast littoral types providing variety and wildlife. Birdwatching
is a delight. Burrawang palms amid eucalypts and a variety of
other native trees surround the water. Stag / elk horns can
be seen in the canopy. Delicate native orchids sometimes reveal
themselves to observant kayakers.
Fauna
Pelicans, cormorants, falcons, sea eagles, ducks, kingfishers,
herons, black swans, little terns, occasional emus, kangaroos
[sometimes swimming], appear above the waterline. In the shallows
stingray, flathead, bream, whiting and other estuary fish can
be seen. Dolphins have recently become resident.
Food & Facilities
At the boatsheds, close to the launch area, a selection of food
and beverages is available from cafes on the water’s edge,
together with toilet amenities. Water and toilet facilities
are NOT available elsewhere around the lake. If you need to
go to the toilet then please be responsible and considerate.
Subject to tolerable weather, The Tuross
Head Kayak Group
enjoy
a
two hour laid back paddle commencing from Lavender Bay at 9am
Friday mornings, terminating with coffee at the boatsheds around
11.
Non-paddling partners are encouraged to share the coffee.
Visitors are always welcome.
The
Tuross Head Kayak Group media page
Tuross
Head Tides
Boating
Map of Tuross Lake
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