Explore a rare coastal wetland with an easy paddle along the tree-lined creeks of Everlasting Swamp National Park. Canoeing gives you a rare opportunity to quietly see jabiru and brolgas in their natural habitat.

Launching at Woody Creek you’ll paddle to the right, gliding past green rushes and violet water lilies as ducks take flight. Leave the outside world behind as the sounds of frogs and calls of birds take over.

Where Woody Creek meets Sportsmans Creek, paddle left along Sportsmans Creek for 5.1km, shaded by old red gum, swamp oak and paperbark trees. Keep your binoculars handy and go quietly for your best chance to see plentiful wildlife drawn to this wetland, known to birdwatchers as the Kakadu of the south’.

Continue right for 200m, past the park’s western boundary where Sportsmans Creek meets the Lawrence Downs State Forest fire trail. Then return the way you came or arrange for car pick up.