And we start: Hume Dam to Corowa

Day 1: Off to a Gusty Start

We set out at 7 AM sharp towards Hume Weir with Beverley, Maria, and my family. Our boats were pre-packed from the night before. The morning brought high winds and major gusts—definitely not rowing weather and under normal circumstances I would have waited a day. But, with everyone's schedules, we had to push on. I was feeling apprehensive, especially learning from Maria about the narrow bridge I had to pass through.

By 8:30 AM, Cy was the first on the water. Saying goodbye was especially tough this time, particularly to my young daughter. The current was fast, making every movement calculated. My first challenge was navigating the narrow bridge gap with a 7-meter oar span—somehow, I made it through to applause, though I couldn’t take my eyes of that bridge for a second. I was going at 18 kmph!! Cy was composed, followed with a graceful wave.

The fast current pushed us along, and we covered 10 kilometers in an hour, the trees rushing by. Cy was ecstatic with the boost. I had to navigate so many trees and stumps backwards. I could not make sense of my mirrors yet.

We arrived in Albury by 3 PM. We camped in a park which felt uneasy, so sleep was disruptive. We met lovely people who took a keen interest in our journey. After dinner at Mad Mex and a quick Coles run, we called it a night, achieving 31 km.

Day 2: Ducks, Stumps, and Cockatoos Navigating the day brought its own set of challenges—dodging trees, getting acquainted with stubborn boat mirrors, and endless noisy cockatoos overhead.

We reached Richardson Bend around 3 PM, averaging 8 kmph going at kayaking pace. There, we encountered an elderly man camping in his van offering us water and fire wood.

Setting up camp was peaceful, and I relished a cup of tea while gazing at the river. I felt lucky.

Nightfall, however, I felt completely spooked by the strange noises.

Day 3: Overcoming Hiccups

The morning didn’t go smoothly; packing up was a slow process, delaying our start. Nearly falling into the water while boarding didn’t help as my leg disappeared about 40cm into the mud. Cy’s help was invaluable.

By 3 PM, we made it to Howlong Memorial Park, camping discreetly in the back. We met lovely people—Bruce and his Jack Russell, and Tasman and Edith with two Jack Russells - many Jack Russells in these woods!

Night fell, bringing trouble: a group of young partiers disrupted our rest at midnight. Concerned for our safety and my boat left down by the beach, Cy stealthily checked on it ninja-style, all dressed in black! Thankfully, they left by 3 AM, but I did not sleep!

Day 4: A difficult day

Fatigue and strong winds tested us today. Cy wasn’t in the best mood, the tricky waters stranded him in shallow areas, adding to the frustration.

But I had a breakthrough with my mirrors, focusing on pointing them at my stern. A few successes navigating with mirrors today but can’t be fully relied on as there are many shallow stumps that I can only see turning around.

Exhausted, we settled on a private property after meeting Ernie, its kind guardian.

He welcomed us, offered electricity, and he and his brother Bernie shared their stories by their campfire. I appreciated the simplicity.

Dinner was a simple pasta dish, and despite the challenges, we managed 25 km. I had a good night sleep. Cy as always sleeps like a log.

Day 5: Making good progress

We started the day early with tea by Ernie’s fire and made good progress on the river, covering 10 kmph in no time. Cy was slower, but the journey was serene and while I was waiting, did some drills - glute exercises and dip, dip, dip but useless as the current just kept pushing me sideward.

By 12:30 PM, we arrived at Corowa Campground, where Brad assisted with the steep boat ramp.

We decided on an unpowered campsite overlooking the Murray River. Karen, the host, was very helpful.

Setting up camp, a hearty lunch, and tea at the camp kitchen were the perfect ways to wrap up our week. We finished 140 km this week! Now, we have two days to rest.

As I was cleaning my boat, I realised that one of my oar sleeves came apart. Beverley managed to get hold of Wes from Corowa rowing club.

I had no idea of the effort involved in changing oar sleeves and Wes went into action. On Sunday we fix the oars and I get to meet the crews!!

I am excited and again, in awe about people going that extra mile to help us out and succeed on our journey. Wes Canny I would describe as the glue or anchor of the Corowa rowing club; I am a committee member of our own rowing club and know too well the importance of volunteers such as Wes to keep rowing clubs afloat!! Many rowing clubs are closing down for the lack of volunteers and funding to keep the essence of a club alive.

Week's End Reflection This journey has been physically and mentally testing and we are just at the start!

From battling winds and currents and the nuisance of packing down and setting up camp to meeting incredible people like Wes from Corowa Rowing Club (who’s helping replace my worn oar sleeves) and Ernie the farmer offering his essentials to us, Cy and I are appreciative of the opportunity this expedition is offering to us.

Ending the week with a shower, good food, and getting a feel for townships and people has been great.

Here is to recovery, repairs, and preparing for the next leg of this journey - Yarrawonga, here we come!