By Matt Nielsen
Kororoit Creek
The suggested section of Kororoit Creek is the lower section, downstream from Racecourse Road bridge between Altona and Williamstown, connecting to the creek mouth at Port Philip Bay. Other sections near Kororoit Creek Rd are navigable however access is very difficult.
The best access is via the parking lot in JT Gray Reserve next to the storage tanks nearest to the river, then walk approximately 75 metres towards the creek. Take the Bay Trail where there is a small boat ramp that eases into deeper water.
This section of the creek is a deep tidal flat-water estuary navigable at high and slack tides. At low tide there is a very significant bar at the mouth of the creek and blue stone rocks which make the creek impassable closer to Racecourse Road.
The banks of the river are brimming with trees known as White Mangroves creating a surprising little pocket of nature nestled between Seaholme and Williamstown leaving one almost unaware of the nearby industrial complex.
From the creek you can see some of the historic remains of the Williamstown Racecourse and the still active Kororoit Creek Fishing Village.
Favourable conditions would be low to moderate winds and high tide; this area is sheltered from waves on Port Philip Bay.
Skeleton Creek
The suggested section of Skeleton Creek is from Point Cook Road bridge to the mouth of the creek flowing into Port Philip Bay between Point Cook and Altona Meadows.
The upper part of this segment is freshwater and densely crowded by reeds creating a navigable chain of ponds that can be traversed after recent rains, or paddled in isolated sections above the weir located near the Skeleton Creek Trail foot bridge.
Better access is from Selwood Pl in Altona Meadows. This cul-de-sac has a footpath that links to the Skeleton Creek Trail. Follow the path about 100 metres towards the ocean where you will find a break in the reeds with a grassy bank, enabling a bit of a bumpy launch.
The lower part below the weir is tidal, brackish, and only navigable at high tide. It traverses the now abandoned Cheetham Salt Works, which is now Cheetham Wetlands. There are remnants of canals, levies, and canal gates from the saltworks. This area is a protected wetland so access is restricted.
Favourable conditions would be low to moderate winds and high tide; this area is sheltered from waves on Port Philip Bay.
Altona Beach and surrounds
With the nearby pier and patrolled beach kayaking at Altona is good for beginners and practicing, or just plain summer stooging about at the beach.
Favourable conditions would be low wind and low waves which are very important at this location given how exposed it is. Avoid this spot otherwise.
One can launch from Altona Beach or from the pedestrian ramp at Flemings Pool. Parking can be challenging on hot days as this is a popular location for many beach goers.
Safety
When engaging in any water sports ensure you always use the buddy system, check weather and water conditions beforehand, wear proper exposure protection, and always wear a personal flotation device when kayaking.
Ensure you know your abilities and limits, stay within them, make sure your gear fits well, and never touch marine life.
For further support or training reach out to one of the local paddling clubs e.g. Footscray Canoe Club, Essendon Canoe Club or your local dive shop.
Matt Nielsen is a Seaholme resident and community activist.
