Other News

ON THE RADIO: The Passionate Paddler’s items are still broadcast by 6MM, as part of the local Department of Sport and Recreation ‘s radio spot on Friday mornings between 9-10am

More on Dolphins: The Marine Biologist suggests that if paddlers notice dolphins “at rest” towards the top of the water, that we do not disturb them

Egg Island: That we have informed South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council about the shoreline deterioration of Egg Island in the Southern Harvey Estuary

That for Clean Up Australia Day: on Sunday 27 February, we “cleaned up” from Barragup Bridge to Furnissdale, Mandurah Paddling Cub did from Riverside Gardens down

Dolphin rides, with “gang of five”: Dolphins are great fun when they go under your boat looking up at you, jump out of the water doing tricks and generally interact with us paddlers in all sorts of ways. One Saturday morning, in October, the “gang of five” were out near Boodalin Island and met a pod of about eleven dolphins. The dolphins decided that each one of the five should be taken for a “dolphin ride” not only one paddler at a time, but often two at a time This went on for about half an hour or so enough time to travel (if that’s the right word) 3/4 of the way back to the Murray River. So fast and furious were some of these “rides” that amid the cries of joy and laughter, there was at least one cry of, “I can’t control my boat ” Now I know that individual paddlers have enjoyed similar “ride” experiences, but never have I heard of a group being chosen for this trick. P.S. I was there, and at one time I counted at least four dolphins under my boat. Barry

Sandy Cove and Clansman Beaches: We, along with the Mandurah Paddling Club and The Mandurah Over 55s Canoe Club have written to the Shire of Murray stating that these two public beaches should remain open to use by paddlers

DEC Canoe guides/ maps: Now available, titled Murray River: Pinjarra to Peel Inlet, the guide also takes in the Serpentine River from Riverside Gardens downstream. Durable, water resistant and virtually rip proof the guide will be available at most outdoor recreation stores, visitor centres and paddling stores for $11.00. "Paddle the Murray River: Pinjarra to Peel Inlet" can be ordered online at www.dec.wa.gov.au/shop or by phone on 9334 0800.

Road Reserve: Following representations from the Friends, the road reserve just south of the Caltex Service Station at Herron, is now open to the public allowing pedestrian access to the foreshore

Brunswick Island: Ninety percent of the Watsonia was knocked out last year. Follow up spraying has been done this year and probably will continue for another two years. It is pleasing to note the sedge/rush vegetation is reclaiming where the Watsonia infestations once thrived