Shane Rattenbury spreading the word on swimming spots around Canberra now the hot weather is hard upon us:
“Renovated in 2010, Casuarina Sands is a great place to relax and have a picnic, with barbecue facilities, shelter, drinking water, picnic tables and toilets. After a swim in the river take a stroll upstream to the historic pumping station.
“A long-time family favourite, Pine Island, is the main recreation area along the Murrumbidgee River in south Canberra, conveniently located adjacent to Tuggeranong. The island features three separate barbeque areas with picnic tables and toilets, a playground, and a series of swimming holes and beaches to enjoy.
“Kambah Pool is a popular swimming spot with picnic tables, toilets and walking trails. Take a swim and then enjoy a hike along the Murrumbidgee River to Casuarina Sands or Pine Island.
“Tucked within a bend where Cotter River meets Paddys River is Cotter Bend. Enjoy a picnic on the grass, read a book under a large shady tree or enjoy a swim along the meandering river. Cotter Bend has barbecue facilities, picnic tables, drinking water, toilets and is wheelchair accessible. After a refreshing swim you could take the short drive to Tidbinbilla to enjoy the range of food and drink on offer at the new Cafe Tidbinbilla which is open 9 am to 4 pm from Wednesday to Sunday.
“Another local treasure is the Tharwa Sandwash. Located in a bend in the Murrumbidgee River, the area has a calm, sandy and open stretch of river which is suitable for swimming, kayaking and water play. There is also 128 species of birds which are known to inhabit this space of only two hectares. Upgraded in 2010, the area has new facilities and paths.
“Looking for a swimming spot you can enjoy with your dog? Take your dog for a swim and a play at Uriarra Crossing, which has both on-lead and off-lead exercise areas. Uriarra is a great place to have a picnic with tables, shelter, toilets and barbecue facilities available.”
Goosepig and I took the hounds for a swim at Uriarra Crossing a few weeks ago and it was pure win. Follow the signs to the reserve though, not the crossing.