|
Kimberley Kayaking - Revisited
Only months after paddling the
most one of the treacherous coastlines of Australia,
the 180km Zuytdorp Cliffs, non stop and overnight,
I, John Dinuuci, Tel Williams, Pam Riordan ,
Don Kinzet and Gary Nixon have just returned
from riding the wild, remote and dangerous waters
of the Kimberley. And what a ride it was.
I first paddled the Kimberley (100 days solo),
20 years ago. This recent expedition was to
revisit some of the areas that I had spent (over
a year) exploring. The group, were aware that
the waters of the Kimberley, well known for
crocodiles, sharks, whales and huge tidal currents,
were some of the most dangerous in the world
to paddle.
We had to be self sufficient, carrying water,
food, camping and medical supplies for the duration
of the expedition. We camped on remote islands
and parts of the mainland which always had beautiful
vistas of the unique Kimberley country.
Although crocodiles were a threat and sharks
followed the kayaks, the tremendous forces of
the 10 metre tidal range was by far their biggest
safety concern. This became most evident when
the team had to paddle across the notorious
King Sound on the biggest tides of the year.
We had to cross currents and tidal rapids that
easily exceeded 15kms an hour, at times impossible
to paddle against and they often got swept backwards.
Flanked by many rocky oyster laden islands,
the currents sped between them at a speed unimaginable,
unless you witnessed them with your own eyes.
These islands clashed with the speed of the
water and became horrific tidal rapids. A capsize
in these areas could have resulted in disaster.
But we were lucky enough (well maybe skilled
enough) to have avoided a capsize. However,
there were many tense moments for a few of the
team.
The expedition, gave five other local kayakers
the chance to appreciate the incredible, dangerous
and remote Kimberley Coastline. Pam Riordan
was probably the first women to cross the notorious
King Sound on one of the biggest tides of the
year. The team also endured the physical torture
of Kimberley hiking.
We saw heaps of turtles, reef sharks, whales,
eagles, jumping fish and a few crocs.
Every afternoon at 5.00pm we would sit on the
sand drinking wine and eating canned oysters
and biscuits and watch the sun set.
If you want to see the incredible strength
and speed of the tides, I have it on video.
Just come to the shop.
|
