From Novices to Navigators: One Family’s Epic Murray River Journey and a New Tribute 15 Years Later  

Fifteen years ago, Peter and his 23-year-old daughter Georgia set off on an adventure that would change their lives — paddling 2,230-kilometres of the Murray River. It began in 2010 with a simple dream and a second-hand kayak, and this year, Peter is preparing to make the journey again — this time solo, and in memory of his beloved wife, Helen. 

It all began when Peter, then 58, and his wife Helen decided they’d had enough of Sydney city life. Seeking a meaningful change, Peter made a bold call to Georgia: Would she join him in paddling Australia’s longest river? With no prior camping or kayaking experience, Georgia jumped at the opportunity. 

With a tight budget and minimal training (a single hour paddling on Lake Buffalo) Peter and Georgia launched their journey on August 31, 2010. Helen, ever the supportive partner, took the wheel of their small Holden Astra, packed to the brim with camping gear, supplies, and warm clothes. She became their lifeline, driving from camp to camp, through mud, mechanical failures, and even kangaroo collisions. 

Throughout the gruelling expedition, the pair endured relentless rain, wind, and ill-advised “shortcuts” through reedy swamps. At one point, Peter developed a painful hand allergy that forced him to wear washing-up gloves while paddling. Despite the harsh conditions, Helen was always there — a warm drink, a bakery treat, or a rare cabin bed ready for the weary adventurers. 

But it wasn’t all struggles. Blue skies and sunlight broke through just when morale hit a low, reminding them why they started. Wildlife encounters, including a swimming emu, lifted their spirits as they crossed into South Australia and began to believe they might actually reach the ocean. 

And they did! After weeks of paddling, Peter and Georgia spotted the Hindmarsh Island Bridge and knew they had made it. The Southern Ocean was theirs. 

A New Chapter: Honouring Helen 

Now 73, Peter is returning to the river in 2025, this time to honour Helen, who recently passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. The trip will be solo — except for his poodle Maggie — with a friend stepping in to drive the support vehicle. The goal is not only personal healing but to raise funds for the Cancer Center Trust Fund, a cause that meant so much to Helen and their family. 

Peter’s family and friends are rallying around him once again — offering their full support as he embarks on this emotional and meaningful journey. 

One Message: Just Do It 

Peter’s story is more than an adventure tale — it’s a reminder of the rewards that lie on the other side of risk. 

“If you have a desire, a whim or an urge to do something out of the ordinary — just do it,” Peter says. “It may seem stupid. It may send you broke. You may not even finish. But at least you won’t die wondering.” 

You can follow Peter’s journey and contribute to his cause by visiting Peter’s Fundraising Page, where donations will support critical cancer services and research. 

From father-daughter explorers to a husband’s moving tribute, Peter’s paddles down the Murray reminds us of life’s fragile beauty and the courage it takes to chase something extraordinary. 

To learn more or support Peter’s journey, visit https://bit.ly/Petespaddle