About this Event
Two day guided kayak from Mooney Mooney into Marramarra Creek. Camping in Marramarra Creek National Park. Experts guides - Peter Vaughan, Professional Outdoor Guide and Dr Bernadette Flynn, Cultural Historian. All kayaks, protective gear, meals and camping equipment provided.
13.5km each way.
Day One
Our kayak tour begins at Mooney Mooney, paddling into the wide, tidal reaches of the Hawkesbury River—known as Dyarubbin—to explore the many histories associated with this ancient trading route. Along the way, we pass the wreck of HMAS Parramatta and share insights into Milson Island, once described as a 'hospital of forgotten boys' and later used as a low-security Pr*son.
Our first stop is Bar Island, a heritage-listed site recognised for its rich Aboriginal and European history, including middens, a cemetery, and the ruins of an early church. After a catered lunch, we turn into Marramarra Creek, where the landscape softens into sheltered bushland and calm waters. Keep watch for cormorants, herons, egrets and perhaps a flash of the diving azure kingfisher. As the creek narrows and winds upstream, we paddle on to our campground, where we rest among the remnants of early settler orchards—an evocative setting to dine, camp, and reflect on the day’s journey.
Day Two
Wake to the quiet rhythms of Marramarra Creek, where mist often lingers above the water. The morning is spent exploring this tranquil inlet, once a lifeline for isolated settlers who relied on the river to transport produce, including citrus from the orchard you camp beside. Your guide will interpret the subtle traces of this history pointing out native trees, old clearings, introduced plantings, and the important stories associated with Aboriginal women Biddy Lewis of 'Mother Marrs Creek'. After a relaxed paddle we begin our return journey through Milsons Passage toward Mooney Mooney, exploring the stories of other places along the way, with shifting light offering a new perspective on Lower Hawkesbury Rive landscapes.
Our outdoor guide is experienced outdoor adventure instructor Peter Vaughan. With a background in teaching at secondary and tertiary levels Peter is particularly keen on helping others to appreciate the outdoors and develop confidence in their own abilities. His primary interests are kayaking activities on rivers, lakes and the ocean. He also enjoys abseiling, hiking and leading groups into Tanzania and Mt Kilimanjaro and is particularly enthusiastic about programs that have mixed modes of travel which engage with the history and geography of exciting, new locations.
Our Historian and Director of Heritage Ventures. Dr Bernadette Flynn is an heritage professional with a passion for researching and sharing the layered histories of the Lower Hawkesbury River. Bernadette established Heritage Ventures to introduce people to the delights of the landscape and waterways around the Mangrove Creek catchment area and local sandstone country. Since moving to Spencer 15 years ago Bernadette has explored places off the beaten track on foot and by kayak, building up knowledge of the local flora and fauna and delving into the archive for historical and archaeological evidence. Her PhD is in interpretative cultural heritage and she has a background in museums and education.
Event venue & nearby stays
Deerubbun Reserve, Peats Ferry Road, Mooney Mooney, Australia
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