Up The Creek Bearii Animal Encounter

A Regenerative expedition along the Murray River from Cobram to Tocumwall is a 5 day journey of reconnection —a deliberate return to our intrinsic place within nature's living systems. As paddles cut through water, rhythmically tracing the river's ancient path, participants begin to shed the illusion of separation, recognizing humanity not as an observer, but as an integral thread in the ecosystem's complex weave.
The journey unfolds like a conversation with the landscape, each bend of the river revealing layers of interconnection. River red gum forests whisper stories of endurance, open farmlands speak of human cultivation, and the water itself becomes a storyteller, carrying the essence of the land through its currents. Paddlers learn to listen—not just with ears, but with their entire being—to the subtle languages of water, wind, and wildlife.
Nights under open skies transform from mere camping to a profound communion with the environment. The boundary between self and landscape blurs, as the sounds of rustling leaves, distant bird calls, and the river's gentle movement weave a complex tapestry of belonging. Each moment becomes an invitation to step beyond human-centric perspectives and recognize the intricate web of life that sustains and surrounds us.
This is not simply a journey across kilometers, but a passage through understanding—a slow, deliberate pilgrimage that allows participants to rediscover their fundamental connection to the natural world, one paddle stroke at a time.
A provocation from our artist

“At dawn on the Birrarung, my home, the river of mist and shadows,

the cox calls for grace and power—

rowers stride with purpose—early for the Regatta.
On the Murray, guided by the water, clay and pebbles.

With sticks n’ sunken stones —I paddle, remaining with the rushes and the reeds.”

Sankar
Sankar Nadeson is an artist of Indian origin whose practice spans studios in Naarm/Melbourne and London.

His work explores ritual, ceremony, memory and place through drawing, performance, installation and digital media.

His mission: to elevate the human experience through Art.
Itinerary

Friday
Meet at Southern Cross station 9:00 am
VLine train and bus to Cobram. Transfers to the river.
Camp, settle in and imaging our journey
Saturday - Tuesday
Paddle from Cobram to Tocumwall
Tuesday
Return via vline to Southern Cross return 6:48 pm What to Bring All personal Gear and a tent if you are not wishing to share with others from our community. Lunch day one and money for lunch on Tuesday. A packing list will be offered once you book.
Provided Food Water the occasional bottle of wine for those over 18 Caneos and assosiated gear Barrels / dry bags Tents to share A place for your thoughts guides Permits and insurances.
Sleeping bags available for hire (see packing list)
Apply for a supported place
We understand that life is tough for some at the moment and want to ensure that the trip is accessible for a wide range of participants. There is a fund to support those affected by cost of living pressures that would otherwise miss out. We have a small amount of fully and partially funded places. Apply here
https://zfrmz.com/FoW05wxokl8xzWZ2abLV
If you are financially going well, contributions to the fund can be made below.