This is my parents’ view of the Swan River as it runs below their house. The Swan River is to Perth as the Harbour is to Sydney – except our waterway is not as big or well-used but with less sharks and pollution. The River was named for the swans which bob around on it – but since we are in the Antipodes they black instead of white.

A typical summer Sunday when we are at home starts out with a little exercise – usually with the Cottesloe Swanbourne Outrigger Club. (I’m still trying to recapture the glory days paddling with New York Outrigger at the Molokai Hoe!)

Today we decided to try something new – stand-up paddling. Its the ‘new-old’ thing – combining outrigger paddling with surfing! We met with Justin from Stand Up Paddle Sports at Pelican Point. He lent us a board and the extra long paddle that is required. (Above is Aklie having a go with a regular outrigger blade.) Its an excellent all-round sport – working your legs, abs and back. You can paddle on flat water, go surfing or some boards even allow a windsurfer sail to be attached – so all the bases are covered. We are thinking to incorporate it into our tours in Croatia!

The early morning exertion is just an excuse for breakfast at the best place on the river to eat – The Left Bank at East Fremantle. The big beer garden has a view straight up the river to the Fremantle Port, and they have an excellent bacon and eggs with a side of baked beans. Many surf-skiers and bike riders end up here for brunch. (Just don’t get caught here when the sea-breeze blows and a sheep carrier is being loaded.)

Today we partook in our other Sunday tradition – dim sum at the Jade Dynasty Chinese Restaurant – 40 Francis Street, Northbridge (near corner of William Street). You can’t get good dim sum in Croatia!

Then its back to the river for a swim. These pictures were taken on the sand-bar directly in front of our house. We often see schools of dolphin chasing fish in the shallow water here. Not bad for a river with a city of 1.5+ million surrounding it – though it must be said that crab and prawn numbers have dwindled in recent years. The Perth beaches are excellent – but unfortunately on summer days the sea-breeze (Fremantle Doctor) blows in early and strong. The river makes for a top refuge.

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