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Paddle and Pause

24 January 2026

This full-day "Sistas Day Out" offers women a restorative escape through a mindful canoe tour of the stunning Shoalhaven Gorge and 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.

📍 Meeting Point: St Ives Shopping Village (pickup and return transport included)
📅 January 24, 2025
🕘 7:00am – 5:30pm
📏 Approx. 6 km paddling
👣 Group Size: 4 – 6 participants

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 is a full-day Sistas Day Out (approx. 7am – 5.30pm) 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 day centres on the rhythmic, meditative nature of canoeing. Participants are guided by expert instructors who teach foundational skills alongside mindfulness techniques, aiming for a sense of "oneness" between body, boat, and water. No prior experience is required, making it an ideal entry point for those new to both paddling and mindfulness.

The curated itinerary blends outdoor immersion with local culture:

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 to view the spectacular falls 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, which offers a varied collection of vintage clothing, homewares, and creative gifts.

Inclusions

- Expert Guidance: Professional and passionate guides, including foundational canoeing instruction.
- All Gear: All activity-related equipment, including canoes, paddles, and PFDs (life jackets).
- Safety First: Comprehensive safety gear, first aid kits, and satellite communication devices.
- Morning Tea: A light morning tea served in nature.
- Transport: Round-trip transport from the office to the venue and between stops.
- Park Fees: All National Parks entry fees paid on your behalf.

Exclusions

- Lunch: While a break is scheduled at the Old Robertson Cheese Factory, lunch is at your own expense.
- Personal Shopping: Any purchases made at the Cheese Factory or The Cool Room Emporium.
- Personal Gear: Individual items like swimwear, towels, sun protection, and water bottles.
- Personal snacks, lunch or additional beverages
- Travel insurance (recommended but not included)

Not Suitable For

• People with mobility impairments
• People with pre-existing medical conditions
• Children under 18 years

Seek Sista Membership

Non-members are welcome at all our experiences. We also offer membership options, which provides free events and special perks, a community WhatsApp group and resources via our website. You can find out more about the membership options here.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

What to Bring

• 1.5–2 L of water
• Comfortable walking shoes and activewear
• Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
• Small daypack for essentials
• Swimsuit/towel or change of clothes for canoeing
• Camera or phone

Know Before You Go

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

Cancellation & Minimum Group Size Policy

More than 21 days before your Sista Day Out: Your payment will be held as a credit for a future Sista Day Out experience. This credit can be transferred to another person but isn’t refundable for cash.

8–21 days before your Sista Day Out: You’ll receive 50% credit to use toward another Sista Day Out experience.

Within 7 days of departure: Bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Waiver & Pre-Trip Details

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

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YOUR HIKING GUIDE:

Kirsty Curnow

Kirsty lives in NSW and is an experienced outdoor guide, graphic designer and lifelong adventurer. She is First Aid trained and has over 15 years working in sport and outdoor spaces. After decades of coaching, competing and creating, she launched Seek Sista in 2024 to offer a welcoming, down-to-earth space for women seeking a sense of belonging and a boost of confidence. She’s passionate about helping others reconnect with nature through active experiences.
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YOUR CANOEING GUIDE:

Sarah

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.
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