This is one of the best white water rivers in Australia, flowing through a deep gorge with no road access. It was a push to reach Badgerys in four days. I could easily have spent a week, camping deep in the gorge on sandy beaches. Heavy rain the week before had ensured a good water level: big rapids, spectacular scenery and relaxing campsites.

The inflatable kayaks were ideal: more forgiving than hard kayaks, more manouverable than rafts and with heaps of room for luxury foods! It was great to give my back a rest from carrying - well almost. We pulled off the river with a 600m climb out of the gorge above us, our 45kg loads proving a good test for the packs and the backs.