The Cheese Churner Rapid - Barron Gorge, North Qld , Australia

The Cheese Churner

The Cheese Churner rapid on the Barron Gorge represents the second hardest rapid that kayakers face. The first being the Roosters Tail which is the of course the flagship of this kayaking adventure.

However, rafting companies use Cheese as a perfect photo opportunity for their clientele. It is a bit of a different story for kayakers. Cheese is definately a grade 3 rapid and provides fun and enjoyment for the participant.

Hazards of Cheese : apart from the usual hazards of whitewater kayaking, you have the imposing rock on river left which has the possibility of an underpin catch if you approach on the left; the hole in the middle drops you waist deep and gives a possibility of turning you over; and the exit has two channels - it is best if you exit through river right channel, as the river left channel has a rocky embrace waiting for the unexpecting adventurer.

How to paddle Cheese (at 20 megalitres) :

You basically enter via river flow about 1 metre from the rock edge on river right, fall through the drop and your target is to cross the left side flow wave about mid channel. Slightly edge your boat downriver (on your right side) to allow the flow to push you through to the correct position.

You then face the hole in which all you do is keep your brace and push through the oncoming wave. Once that is done , use your draw to get to river right to exit through the correct channel. Push through with the flow and complete the small drop using your brace.

Once done, Cheese is a satisfying rapid and provides enormous esteem and confidence to the kayaker .

Remember, when paddling the fabulous natural watercourses of this great country, please leave nothing but footprints and take nothing out except for photos and memories of your visit.

Blue Skies

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