Lucinda to Sunken Reef Bay The kayaks were all heavily pregnant and it was a fair way to lug them down to the beach. We shared two trolleys between the six boats and used lifting straps for the shorter distances. Close to the top of the tide we slid the kayaks into the water, or in Mark's case, almost under it, and eased off into glassy
conditions. Being on croc hyperalert I came across a loggodile resting quietly before we cruised into George Point to greet the island and celebrate the successful launch of the 'no stress' paddle.
Next port of call was Mulligans Bay and the decision was whether to camp here or at Sunken Reef. Mulligans Bay has a creek at the northern end that oozes croc country. It is lined with mangroves and murky. I radioed my refusal to entree the mouth of the creek and landed on the sand where the water was clear so at least I
could see it coming. Stepping out was a delight as the sand was soft and bubbly. A bit like walking on the sound of rice bubbles. Tactile pleasures aside the tide was dropping quickly and the reason why the others had opted for the creek. Chris found the campsite on the southern bank near the mouth had become overrun
so we shoved off and plodded around to Sunken Reef Bay.
This was a beautiful sheltered cove with small creeks at both southern and northern ends. The northern creek had more flow making it easier to collect the water for the solar showers. The flotsam had already been used to create rat proof hanging (ie a
plastic bottle acting like a sleeve). It lent itself to the creation of an extended dining suite in the shade of the pandanus tree. Ray acquired an entrance mat for his tent for the rest of the trip. Having the taj on board we were allocated the prime
beachfront site, which while clearly the best possie, also the first to receive visitors from the sea. There was much mirth when I solemnly placed half paddle at each entrance to the tent. It made me feel better.
This paddle really was two adventures for the price of one as now we hit the Thorsborne Trail to visit Mulligan Falls. Heading inland the southern creek swelled and if we wanted dry feet it meant crossing the creek via a felled tree trunk. Ray continued in first gear as if it were the track. A similar performance from
Chris but that was where the elegance ended. It was a hot day and I thought I was really in for an involuntary swim as I literally bumbled my way across. By the time we reached the top of the falls the water looked delicious but we showed restraint. Instead we continued down the trail with native lasiandra in flower
alongside, to the base of the falls.
We came across several groups of bushwalkers and left Tom as he availed himself of the convenience. Well we thought we had left Tom. When we arrived at the falls there he was sunning himself in his jocks on a rock nonchalantly reading a book. I think I might have been watching too much Dr Who as that loo had taken on
special qualities. 'Tom' probably thought us a bit odd as we stared. By the time the real Tom turned up we were in the cool clear water and enjoying a swimathon into the gushing flow. On the way back down a snake crossed the path between Chris and I,
certainly on the move and wriggling fast. I had an attempt at spearing Tom with the walking aid when it came to crossing the log, but missed, just (next time Maureen).
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