Paddle & Pause (Sista Day Out)

This full-day out offers women a restorative escape through a mindful canoe tour of the stunning Shoalhaven Gorge followed by a visit to the spectacular Fitzroy Falls. Combining gentle physical activity with a stop at the Old Robertson Cheese Factory and vintage shopping, it is the perfect balance of nature connection and social exploration. View our last day out here

📍 Meeting Point: Gordon Station or Aylmerton Road Turnoff (Southern Highlands - exact location texted upon booking) 📅 Date: April 18, 2026 🕘 Time: 7:00am – 7:00pm (back to St Ives) 📏 Distance: Approx. 6 km paddling 👣 Group Size: 4 – 8 Sistas (plus your guide Kirsty)

✨ Highlights

• Mindful Paddling: A gentle, contemplative canoe tour through the Shoalhaven Gorge, focusing on nature connection and rhythmic awareness.

• Spectacular Scenery: Surround yourself with towering sandstone cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and pristine swimming holes.

• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to spot an abundance of local flora and fauna in one of Australia's most scenic flatwater venues.

• Fitzroy Falls: A dedicated visit to the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre to view the falls.

• Robertson Village: A stop at the historic Old Robertson Cheese Factory and time to browse the vintage treasures at The Cool Room Emporium.

• Sista Energy: A women-only, small-group environment designed to be calm, friendly and supportive.

📖 Full Description

The Mindful Canoeing Experience will be run by our partner Valley Outdoors. We will enjoy a full-day out designed to help women disconnect from the busy world and reconnect with themselves. Set in the Shoalhaven Gorge—widely considered Australia’s most scenic flatwater paddling venue—the morning will focus on the rhythmic, meditative nature of canoeing.

• The Journey: A moderate-energy paddle through pristine waters surrounded by sandstone cliffs, hidden waterfalls and wildlife. The schedule is intentionally slow-paced to allow for swimming, reflection and "purposeful moments" to connect with Country.

• The Stops: The day includes a trip to the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre and a stop at the Old Robertson Cheese Factory for a lunch break (at own expense). This is followed by a browse next door at The Cool Room Emporium for vintage clothing and homewares.

✅ Inclusions

• Expert Guidance: Professional guides, including foundational canoeing instruction.

• All Gear: All activity-related equipment (canoes, paddles and life jackets).

• Safety First: Comprehensive safety gear and satellite communication devices.

• Morning Tea: A light morning tea served in nature.

• Transport: Round-trip transport from St Ives to the Valley Outdoors Venue and between stops.

• Park Fees: All National Parks entry fees paid on your behalf.

❌ Exclusions

• Lunch: Lunch is at your own expense at the Old Robertson Cheese Factory.

• Personal Shopping: Any purchases made at the Cheese Factory or Emporium.

• Personal Gear: Items like swimwear, towels and sun protection.

• Personal Snacks: Additional snacks or beverages.

• Travel Insurance: Recommended but not included.

  
  

👋 Meet your Canoeing Guide

Sarah teamed up with Travis as Paddle & Portage Canoes expanded, now fulfilling their dream in Kangaroo Valley. Together, they run Valley Outdoors, an ecotourism adventure company aiming to inspire outdoor connections. With a diverse background, Sarah is dedicated to supporting customers for seamless and enjoyable experiences. She is passionate about Mother Nature and hopes to instil the same love in others.

ℹ️ IMPORTANT INFORMATION

🎒 What to Bring

• 1.5–2 L of water

• Comfortable walking shoes (that you are happy to get muddy and wet)

• Comfortable clothes suitable to the weather (no jeans)

• Second set of clothes (including shoes and socks) to be left in the van for the end of the day.

• Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen

• Swimsuit (can be worn under your clothes)

• Small daypack for essentials

• Camera or phone

• Personal medication

• Snacks/light lunch (or you can purchase lunch after canoeing).
  

🌦️ Know Before You Go

If the weather is poor, we’ll confirm any changes 24 hours ahead.

📑 Minimum Group Size & Cancellation Policy

• Minimum group: The event will proceed with a minimum of 4 participants. If the minimum is not met, Seek Sista will contact you at least 48 hours before the event to offer a full refund or transfer to another date.

• Full refund: Cancellations made 7 days or more before the event.

• 50% refund: Cancellations made 3–6 days before the event.

• No refund: Cancellations made less than 3 days before the event or no-shows.

• Event postponement: If the event is cancelled by Seek Sista due to weather, track conditions, or safety concerns, participants will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to a new date. All cancellations must be communicated via email to kirsty@seeksista.com.au
  

✍️ Waiver & Pre-Trip Details

After booking, you’ll get an email with everything you need to know—including links to waiver forms to help keep everyone safe and cared for.