The Serpentine River is one of three rivers flowing into the Peel-Harvey Estuary which is twice the size of Sydney Harbour and provides a habitat to many species of fauna and flora, including black swans, ospreys, wild dolphins and blue manna crabs. Known as “Waangaamaap Bilya” by the Noongar people, it has helped feed families and sustain life throughout millennia.

The All-Abilities Paddle Launch at Riverside Gardens offers an accessible option for people with a disability to enjoy the Serpentine River in a canoe or kayak. It provides a large floating platform with contrasting colours, kick plates, grab rails and ramp access. There is a specially designed step seating option for people to transition from a seated position into a watercraft whilst using the grab handles for support. Two custom slipways ensure a safe entry and exit into the Serpentine River for all paddlers. ACROD parking, accessible toilets, and barbeque facilities are also available at the launch site. The All-Abilities Paddle Launch is also an ideal staging-off point for experienced kayakers. Both the half-day Heron Paddling Trail and The Spoonbill Paddling Trail (part of the wider Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Trails network) can be accessed from this point.

The route’s pretty waterside picnic spots, bars and restaurants, many with their own moorings, make ideal resting places.