The lower reaches of the Brisbane River do not make a picturesque welcome for the cruise ships docking at Hamilton Wharf. Today they didn't smell too good either. Despite the
noise and pong of this industrial side show, it is still worth paddling this part of the river every now and then, if for no other reason but to see how quickly the riverfront is changing along with the ever expanding port facilities.
The first major change were a series of massive welded tanks. Located next to the cement works they were topped by bright yellow railing - mind you, the colour, OHS approved or not, would do little to save your bacon from that height. Next were the array of yachts and MVs docked at Rivergate. A couple looked like skiffs on steroids - pure speed machines. A tragic extravagance given they looked like they couldn't do any else useful aside go fast.
The second Gateway Bridge masked the first perfectly and it was not until we were a couple hundred of metres away that the earlier version stood aside. The manicured links of the golf
course and Colmslie were the first signs of green. The Colmslie Beach and embankment is starting to look quite pretty. By the numbers of people fishing you could be forgiven for thinking that the river contents are edible. Large gatherings were dotted throughout the shady park which surrounded a magnificent
playground.
After a relaxed lunch concluded with blue berry muffins and date, apple and walnut loaf, Peter graciously donated his yellow frill necked cap to the river when it did not come up with a roll. On the way back we skirted in close to the sandy beach 50m east of the mouth of Bulimba Creek. This is one of a few places along the river where you could pull up for a cuppa without being driven out by the noise or stench of industry.
The wind created some sailing moments before turning into Fisherman's passage where passing under the bridge we found ourselves ploughing into a stiff tidal race. While paddling the lower reaches is a
far cry from the pristine places we so love, it remains an interesting way to view the constant changes.
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