Save Our Macleay River Paddle 2017
The
water levels were low, but the spirits were high, when about 50 canoe
enthusiasts gathered last Saturday to paddle from Bellbrook to Nook.
With
thanks to the late Aunty Esther Quinlan, Arthur Bain Chairman of the
community group Save Our Macleay River (SOMR), welcomed all in the
Dhunghutti language and, following a local tradition, tossed a pebble in
the river to announce the launch of the flotilla.
A
variety of boats with canoeists of ages from 7 to over 70, braved the
low and slow flowing river. Participants had to carry or pull their
boats over several sections, but even the most fragile looking homebuilt
canoe came through unscathed. As one paddler observed, fortunately the
rocks were all washed round and smooth by the ever running waters.
It
was the fifth and longest paddle organised by SOMR, a group concerned
about maintaining the health of the Macleay River. The completion of the
course took between 4 to 5 hours. Everybody arrived with a smile and a
sense of achievement and all agreed that there is no better way to
experience and appreciate the beauty of the valley.
This
brief report and some photos have already been posted on the SOMR
facebook and the website. The Macleay Argus published the story and
photos on 19 Sept, however - if you've seen it - the article on dementia
the editor slotted in under the same heading had nothing to do with the
paddle or SOMR. You also find it on their website. http://www.macleayargus.com.
Graham
and Kath Dickie of Elsinore Photography compiled a beautiful video
using the footage they took with their drone and stills from the start.
You can find it on youtube https://youtu.be/
Keeping the river clean
Last
Friday, residents from Mooneba and Temagog who are concerned about
rather extensive gravel extraction from the riverbed joined the SOMR
Committee Meeting.
They are already in contact with Council. SOMR is
going to ask Council how the impact of the gravel extraction on water
quality and riperian health is monitored.
Becoming a SOMR member
If
you drink the water, fish, canoe, swim or water your stock from our
river and streams ... we invite you to be informed and involved ...
become a SOMR member.
You find the application and renewal forms on the website http://www.
Cheers from the SOMR Committee
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