Print this page Birds and Bridges at the Nepean River

This scenic walking course explores the natural and built environment along the Nepean River. Starting from Emu Plains, the walk follows the river corridor, offering opportunities to observe birdlife and appreciate the design and history of the region’s bridges. Along the way, we consider how landscapes support both wildlife and human activity. Participants should be comfortable with an 8 km walk. Please note that river conditions may require cancellation in the event of flooding.

This walk will go ahead whatever the weather, except where the guide deems there to be a threat to health and safety. In this situation you will be contacted with an alternative date. Please ensure your mobile phone number is up-to-date with WEA before enrolling and ensure that you have it with you on the day in case the tutor needs to contact you. Meet at Emu Plains Train Station 10 minutes before the tour starts so it can commence on time. Please check the Transport NSW website for further travel information on how to get there.

SUGGESTED READING

• Karskens, G. (2020), People of the River: Lost worlds of early Australia, Allen & Unwin. ISBN 9781760292232
• Ryan, J.T. (1894), Reminiscences of Australia: containing 70 years of his own knowledge and 35 years of his ancestors, George Robertson and Co. ISBN 0959376402
• Flanner, T. ed. (1997) Watkin Tench, 1788 Comprising A Narrative of the Expedition to Botany Bay and A Complete Account of the Settlement at Port Jackson. ISBN 875847278

COURSE OUTLINE

• Reasonable fitness required, must be able to walk 8 kms
• A train-friendly 4-hour walk from Emu Plains station to the Yanghai bridge, Riverwalk and return
• Geography and history, flora and fauna, especially birds, bridges and flood indicators
• Well-maintained tracks, street, road, some stairs, bridges

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Walking supports a healthy lifestyle\
• Identify birds in their habitat
• Understand the history of river-crossing and bridge-building on the Nepean: engineering challenges
• Identify resources for both pre-1788 (Darug) and post-1788 (settler) life
• Learn one word of Darug language

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Walking gear: walking shoes, sunhat, sunscreen, backpack, 2 litres water, morning tea and lunch, clothing as befits the weather. Reasonable fitness required, must be able to walk 8 kms, very little elevation. Walking on well-maintained tracks, street, road, some stairs, bridges.