after dinner we go to river
wade out on sand up to knees
drop into water, float and paddle
feel cool and refreshed in breeze

six herons’ silhouettes overhead
looking for safe spot to rest
couple of seagulls wing above
ducks in tall reeds make nest

sun is gone leaving yellow glow
red river gums crowd pink bank
ripples desiccate streaming flow
in undercurrents waterweeds sank

campers’ voices call to each other
across the far side of park road
caravans and cabins lighting up
hear approach of lone motor boat

cicadas whirr begins to fade
with heat and light go day creatures
episode of Murray night-life begins
listen and watch for natural features