The canoe and kayak guide to Western Australia - Hesperian Press - RRP $22.95 - ISBN 0 85905 266 4

The Canoe and Kayak Guide to Western Australia is the only trip guide to Western Australia’s rivers and sea kayak trips. It details trips in areas between Esperance and Exmouth.

"When I was about eight years old I saw a picture in a book, a view from a bridge of a peaceful river meandering between two steep forested banks. A lone canoe, laden with supplies and two paddlers, was reflected in the tranquil waters with a gentle wake behind. So vivid was the image to me that it was like a movie, not a photograph. I could barely read but I knew at once I wanted to be there. I loved camping out, forests, boats and water, and here was a picture of them all in one. I pestered my parents until finally they bought the family a little canoe. We spent many happy days down by the river in that canoe, my brothers and I fighting over the right to be captain for the day. Occasionally, we would load it with food and camping gear and paddle to Mt Henry and camp overnight, a distance of about 2 km that is now covered by freeway. Most of my life has been spent trying to rediscover that simple pleasure. . . ."

Buy online with paypal, postage $2.50, or from good bookstores, paddlesport retailers and outdoor shops. Also available direct from the publisher or from the author .

Contents

The book contains an explanation of rules and etiquette relating to accessing rivers. There is an explanation of the grading of the various trips and some discussion on types of craft.

Included are explanations of Murray, Harvey, Collie, Warren, Frankland and Deep Rivers. Esperance and Albany regions are discussed. The Swan river and related areas such as the Avon and Canning rivers, and North Fremantle are covered. Islands off the coast of Perth are covered including Garden Island, Rottnest Island, Carnac Island and Shoalwater Bay, one hours drive south of the capital. Kalbarri, Murchison, Shark Bay and Ningaloo in the north are discussed. Canoe hire, lessons, clubs and retail outlets are also covered.

This book provides much insight into many of Western Australia's waterways with historcal anecdotes and recommendations based on Martin's years of experience travelling in the region. An invaluable head start to anyone planning a river trip in Western Australia.