The Curdies River is fed by many creeks and waterways in the hinterland. At Peterborough it opens into a shallow lake before it enters the sea. The estuary provides a calm contrast to the relentless tides that wash onto the beaches and cliffs. It's shallow waters make an ideal playground for children.
This is the spot for migratory birds who travel here from as far as Japan and Siberia. They come to feed in the shallows and if the conditions are right, they are here by the hundreds. For more information, click here Birdlife
Depending on the time of the year, the estuary presents a different experience. In summer the waters of the lake are lower and the beach is greater; in winter the waterline in higher and the beach is smaller.
The Boat Ramp at Dorey St divides the estuary into two different activity areas. 1. From the Boat Ramp to the sea, and 2. north of the Boat Ramp.
Features
From the Boat Ramp to the sea:
- This is the spot for the littlies to play in summer. The waters are still and shallow here, and because the river is open to the sea, the water is clear and clean.
- It's is here too that kayaking and paddle board skills are honed. It's good to play and much around here where the waters are shallow before venturing into the wider lake.
- Fisherfolk love to fish from the banks on the caravan side or opposite that spot.
- or set off north of the boat ramp, into the lake to spend a day on the tinnie, enjoying the peace and quiet and hopefully catching a fish or two.
North of the Boat Ramp:
- Fisherfolk launch their tinnies to fish in the lake, some head upstream to Curdievale.
- You can boat up to Curdievale and moor at the pub for lunch before returning downstream to Peterborough.
- More seasoned kayaking, paddle boarding and on those special days, wind surfers love this space to play in.
Take note:
In recent years the problem of blue green algae has clouded the waters of the estuary. At the end of summer until the winter rains have fallen, blue green algae outbreaks have become more frequent and more intense. This is the result of many contributory factors, especially the pollution of the waterways by dairy farming. There is a concerted effort being made to address these problems. click here Curdies River Consultative Committee