Floating down the river the sunlight reflecting onto the banked trees, the temperature so nice I felt a sense of calmness flow over me. The water in the river like a cup of tea, the native plants responsible for the natural brew.
We started of the day with an intro to canoeing, before we got out into the water. I would have to say that this day has been the most fun for me, as I found a connection with the surrounding area.

Josh (my buddy for the river trip) and I took our time floating down the mirror like river, our prize to see a tiger snake swim elegantly right in front of our boat and then disappearing into the river bank. The moment gone in the second of excitement. I was so amazed at the sight, sensing the reptile’s power and beauty.
We continued to raft until we met the sand between the river and the ocean, viewing the spectacular natural phenomenon upon the sand dunes. 

The whole day, I knew that the practice capsizes would have to come, however with the heat and protected area I felt no restrictions to drown myself.  The activity surprised me how fun it was to get into the water. Josh and I found ourselves capsizing more than once. We tried different techniques to save ourselves from the addictive water.

I felt at ease as I ate my lunch in the warm sand, my hat over my face and the sound of the ocean behind me. 

Our trip back was quiet, as Josh and I connected with the surroundings and drifted back to our port. The only evidence of civilisation was a powerline that ran over the river.

On the way back to school we listened to some music as we reflected over the day in silence.  I started to see how I had changed over the nine days that I had been here. I was sceptical about how I was going to get everything out of this experience, but my understanding has changed now. I know that there will still be moments were I struggle or can’t gain the full knowledge of the activity. But I know that every moment in life is a chance to grow and that I don’t have to rush my education.   

Eugene- Sandringham College