The Far North Coast is a favourite for Sydneysiders planning a winter getaway. The region offers a temperate climate year-round with winter days at a pleasant 19 degrees, allowing locals and tourists alike to enjoy water sports including Surfing and Stand up Paddle boarding (SUP) year round.
Byron Bay is considered, by many, as the jewel of the Far North Coast however the region has so much more to offer! Leave the well-known Jonson Street behind and enjoy a taste of the real Far North Coast; a short drive from Byron lies the idyllic seaside town of Brunswick Heads. Set on the banks of the stunning Brunswick River the town is a time capsule avoiding coastal development. Brunswick Heads or ‘Bruns’ as it’s known by the locals has a laid back vibe, great cafes and beautiful wide streets leading to the stunning river’s edge.
The Brunswick River rises on the eastern foothills of Mt Jerusalem National Park and meanders its way through the Byron Hinterland before joining the Pacific at Brunswick Heads. The river is surrounded by the Brunswick Heads Nature reserve which lies on the traditional land of the Bundjalung people. The reserve was established in 1979 to protect fragile coastal ecosystems. The reserve contains a littoral rainforest which supports a diverse range of wildlife including numerous threatened plant and animal species. Forty-three species have been recorded in the reserve including fruit bats, grey-headed flying foxes, wallum frogs, long-nosed potoroos and koalas.
Local, eco-certified tour company Let’s Go Surfing (LGS) offer SUP tours through the nature reserve daily with friendly and experienced instructors. LGS’ has a strong commitment to protecting the environment. Instructors instil the message of environmental awareness and the company has been reducing their environmental impact. Since 2017, LGS has banned the use of plastic bags, regulated its water use and updated its recycling practices. LGS promotes environmentally conscious product choices and supports the ‘Take 3 for the Sea’ initiative.
The Brunswick River provides a great way to explore the reserve, enjoying the environment while on the water reduces tourist’s impact on native plants and animals. SUP is an easy-to-do activity that requires no prior experience and a low level of fitness. SUP is suitable for the whole family and is an excellent way to build core strength and fitness. Paddling through the reserve is a great to unwind and feel at one with nature. Brunswick River has excellent water clarity which allows viewing of a variety of fish, dolphins, green turtles and the critically endangered loggerhead turtle. Paddle off that glass of holiday chardonnay and catch up with your family and friends while you meander through the river system spotting wildlife.
SUP tours commence on the outskirts of town at the Ferry Reserve then head West downriver through the reserve. LGS can tailor tours to suit clients’ needs and wants. All tours are small groups with no more than six people. Tours start with important safety information and cover all of the basics including; warm up, how to stand and control the board, proper stroke and turning techniques, correct posture, safe entry and exit from the water. The duration of the tours is two and a half hours with all equipment provided. If you are holidaying without a car LGS offers daily transfers from Byron Bay to Brunswick Heads.
LGS provide expert tuition for you and your family to learn and develop your SUP skills. The tour is a great way to enjoy the beautiful Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve and learn about the pristine and unique environment. For bookings please click here.