Canoeing in Goolwa, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Airing Date: Nov 25th, 2002
The Mighty Murray is full of history. In the old days paddle steamers loaded with wheat and wool pulled up to Goolwa wharf to transport their goods to destinations all over the world. These days, in summer the four kilometre stretch becomes a watery playground with water skiers, sail boats and sail boards dominating.
Jet skis are also popular on the Murray, and can be hired from Goolwa Jet Ski Hire at a cost of $35 for 15 minutes. Zipping around the river aboard a jet ski is a great way to combat those 32 degree summer days.
Nearby Hindmarsh Island is quite unique. On one side there is fresh water, and on the other there is salt water. The island is right at the mouth of the Murray River and is great for fishing. With loads of wetlands it is also equally as good for bird watching. From November to February numerous pelicans find refuge on Hindmarsh Island.
For a quick bite to eat try Rankines Landing for its views, beers and Coffin Bay oysters at around $16 a dozen.
From Hindmarsh Island it is a 30 minute paddle past Hindmarsh Bridge back to Goolwa and the Boathouse. If youre travelling in a canoe or just about any sort of watercraft you can park right outside.
The facts:
Qantas flies to Adelaide daily from all capital cities. Prices start from $210 ex Melbourne and from $459 ex Perth. Prices include charges/ taxes.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Accommodation at the Boathouse in Goolwa starts from $160 per night for two people. For water sports hire, contact the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre.
South Australian Tourism Commission
Tel: 1300 655 276
Goolwa Visitor Information Centre
Tel: 08 8555 1144
Goolwa Jet ski Hire
Tel: 08 8555 2573
The Boathouse / Birks Harbour
Tel: 08 8555 0338
