Adventurer Paul Everitt speaks with expedition paddler, Chris Hayward, who in 2012 became the youngest person to kayak down the full length of Australia’s longest river, the Murray. Hayward is now attempting the first full ascent of the river, starting at the mouth in the Southern Ocean in early December and kayaking 2,520 km upstream before hiking the last 236 km to the source of the Murray and on to the summit of Mt. Kosciuszko. To read the full interview, click here, and to learn more about Everitt and other adventurers around the world, visit Going Solo.
What kayak are you using to take on the Murray River during your Sea to Source expedition?
Chris – I am using a Wilderness Systems Tempest 170, it is the same model as I used on my previous trip and after kayaking over 3,000 km in these kayaks I can honestly say I love them!
Chris – I estimate between 4 – 6 months depending on flow. They have just released another 6,000 ML but it should reside in February.
Chris – Preparation is key! Last year I jumped into the deep end with no skill, barely any practice and very little research and I paid for it. This year it has been meticulously planned and trained for. The other thing is to have fun.
Chris – One of the worst things to do in the Aussie bush if you want to avoid encounters with the wildlife is stay still! I have had four Eastern Brown Snakes at my feet just because I was reading. Am I worried? Not at all. The wildlife in Australia is safe with common sense. The people are incredibly friendly and laid back.
1- iPod, music is a luxury I like
Chris – Well I have always dreamt of Antarctica and would love to trek solo and unsupported from the rim to the South Pole and then summit Mt. Vincent. But no official plans have been announced just yet.
What advice would you give to someone who wishes to follow your strokes upriver, or maybe the more traveled route downriver?
Chris – My advice would be go for it! Even if other people have done it, no one ever has the same experience so make it your own and enjoy!