Barrel of Laughs – Epic Easter Paddling Escape

The excitement of the rapids is well complemented by the peaceful, pristine, natural gorges that engulf us as we venture further downstream. Wilderness campsites far from civilisation provide the backdrop for impressive stargazing opportunities as we commune around the campfire by night.

Being in canoes creates a platform for a much more intimate understanding of self and of the water. It is not like the gung-ho, guided experience of a rafting adventure. Instead boats are paddled in pairs, facilitating an opportunity for participants to develop trust, communication and understanding with their canoeing partners, as well as experiencing first hand the outcome of their paddling decisions. The Nymboida river has a safe, drop-pool style, so capsizes and mistakes are harmless fun, with ample room to collect our wits and process our experiences in the calm pools below.

We use the river as a powerful metaphor. As we negotiate the rapids in our canoes, we will also be exploring and negotiating our inner lives. Through group work, games, exercises and personal reflection we will build resilience and connection giving you a treasured experience that you will draw from for years to come!