29/07/2026
History Afloat 5th and 6th September. We're heading to Marramarra Creek a place of solitude and sheltered bushland by kayak. Camping among the remains of an abandoned orange orchard we'll be paddling out to trace the stories in the landscape at old clearings, regrowth native forests, gravestones and history gleaned from maps and archival records.
One of the older documented names for Marramarra Creek, is Mother Marr's Creek. The Berowra Parish map from 1835 uses the name Mother Marr's and land application notices from 1834 also record this name: 'Cumberland, 12 acre3, parish of Berowra, on Mother Marr's Creek ; westward of the land occupied by John Hunter: applied for by John Grace'. Both names were in use by 1833 when Sarah Felton Mathew, wife of surveyor Mathew noted in her diary: ‘Went up Marramarra Creek, or as it is usually called Mother Mar’s Creek, a corruption probably of its native name…’. Powell suggests that Marrar translates to fish, so the name could mean place of many fish. On their journey up the creek the Mathews come across John Grace’s limeburning activities and settlement. Sarah records seeing five abodes, log huts covered with bark...’these dreary solitudes might serve for the abode of the misanthrope; so utterly are they secluded from all approach, and so utterly destitute of all comfort and civilization…’.
You're invited to this remote place to paddle into history and enjoy the serenity of the creek, abundant birdlife and stunning bushland. All kayaks and gear, camping equipment, meals and guiding provided. We'd love to take you there. www.heritageventures.com.au/kayakmarramarra
