Past adventure.
ADVENTURE REPORT
A nice winter’s morning greeted 22 walkers on Sunday 8 days ago as we gathered at a Meadowbank cafe for what was a very flat, easy and mud free walk. We rambled and criss-crossed our way along the Parramatta River heading inland for some 13.5km.
In the sunlight, the river was very calming, smooth and broad. The only disturbances were the occasional passing ferries, and closer on land, the dinging of bike bells on this popular pathway. And as per usual, the walkers enthusiastically chatted all the way as if they hadn’t seen each other in years, even though for most, it was only 2 weeks ago 😂.
At three historical stops along the way we briefly learnt about … the father of NSW railways John Whitton whilst crossing a bridge named in his honour. He was responsible for the construction of more than 3000km of NSW railway lines including crossing the Blue Mountains and the Zig Zag railway during his 40 years as NSW Engineer in Chief in the late 1800s … next the heritage listed Royal Australian Navy armament depot in Newington with it’s old dock side cranes & half buried storage bunkers … and finally the old Rydlemere Girls Orphanage high on the hill overlooking the river, now repurposed and part of the Western Sydney University.
As we approached Parramatta, the river narrowed and became more shrouded with bush.
Our progress was quicker than I had expected so upon arrival and due to timetabling gaps, we quickly boarded a ferry for a very peaceful and quicker return journey.
Back at Meadowbank we shared lunch together. Uncanningly and as a natural or ominous segway to the next NBREA adventure, the wind picked up and the temperature dropped forcing us to rug up as we consumed our tucker.
It was a great morning, great company, and a great inner Sydney wark. Well done Bernadette, BruceR, BruceS, Carlene, Carolyn, Cathy, Di, Eileen, George, Jacquie, Jenny, Jill, Johan, Lisa, Narelle Richard, Rob, Sandra, Sharon, Sue, and Susan.
Until next time …
Yours in adventure Nick
50th NBREA ADVENTURE 🥳
Oh … I forgot to mention … this was also NBREA’s 50th adventure !!! 44 Hikeabouts & 6 Multiday Adventures !!! We’ve been very busy Rosie these past 18 months or so !!! Thanks everyone for your fantastic support. Here’s to the next 50.
Yours in adventure Rosie & Nick
DETAILS
An easy and pretty 12.5km walk along the Parramatta River from Meadowbank to Parramatta. Highlights include John Whitten Bridge (old Rusty), Bennelong Pedestrian Bridge, Olympic Park bushland, riverside paths, Newington Armory, continuous river views, old Orphanage Buildings on Western Sydney University Campus, Paramatta waterfront.
After the walk, we can grab a bite to eat in Parramatta for those interested, then catch a ferry back to the start. The route is on bitumen and concrete pavement all the way and is mainly flat. Sorry no mud this time. It should take 3-4 hours to complete.
Meet at Meadowbank Ferry Wharf. Tap the Meetup button below for directions. There is free unrestricted parking available in the vicinity. Car pooling is recommended to reduce the demand on parking spots. Public transport by way of ferry, bus, or train (500m away) is also a convenient option. The Fork n Spoon cafe is near the Meetup Point. It opens at 7am.
Bring a snack or two to consume along the way. Bring your Opal card. Hiking poles are not necessary.
SHORT COURSE OPTION
Suburbia is nearby along most of the walk, so you can checkout anytime and get public transport or a taxi. The most convenient option is to tap off at Rydalmere Wharf which is 7.5km in. From there you can get a ferry to the end or to the start. Let Nick know if you plan to do a short course.