Broke Inlet was last weekend. What a fantastic trip. Great paddling, great scenery, great company. Thanks to everyone who attended for making it a great weekend.
The short version – day one, paddled out at about 2.30 pm Thursday. Made our way to the mouth of the Shannon River via Shannon Island, looking for a suitable camp for the night. Friday, paddled up the Shannon as far as possible, fantastic scenery, before making our way to a beautiful beach about 6 k’s away and setting up camp for the next two nights. What could be better than waking up in the morning, pulling down the zipper (to the tent) and looking out on a beautiful beach.
Saturday it was off to the mouth of the inlet. A great paddle, sand dunes on the left, steep rocky cliffs on the right. A beautiful beach awaited us at the mouth with a big hill to climb at one end for an amazing view and rocks to climb at the other end. Some fished, some snorkeled, some swam, some watched. Then it was back to the camp for lunch. After lunch the wind had picked up and a few hardy soles took off in the wind and waves to check out the islands in the east of the inlet. An exhilarating 18 km paddle was followed by another beautiful sunset, dinner and a chat around the campfire.
Sunday it was time to pack up and head for home. A strong wind had come in early making for another exciting 5 k paddle back to the cars. Then the long drive home (for those whose cars made it all the way back).
A big public thanks to Colin Priest for organising and leading such a great trip. Thanks also to Steve Emms for helping with the organisation (Steve was unfortunately unable to make it due to the imminent passing away of his father, our hearts are with you Steve). Thanks also to the other instructors for leading the groups and helping (and testing) out the trainees. Thanks Ian, Geoff and Gisela.