History, the Hunter, and a paddle

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The history of the Hunter is nowhere more apparent than in a canoe, on the river, at Maitland, according to former foreign correspondent Scott Bevan.

The ABC journalist wrote The Hunter, which delves into the significance of the region to the Australian colony and its lifeblood, after he paddled the 470 kilometre length from the Barrington springs to Newcastle Port.
“In the greater Maitland area the history, the glimpses of these mansions, was extraordinary,” he said.
Bevan, who will promote his book in Morpeth tomorrow, said the glimpses of 19th century estates were among the highlights of the trip.
“Aberglasslyn House just stares at you down the river,” he said. “Even the banks of the river tell the story of the ’55 flood and, looking at that piece of flood mitigation, it’s hard not to think about Maitland’s modern history. I’m really looking forward to talking to people who are passionate about the river while I’m in Maitland.”

Full article by Sam Norris available at Maitland Mercury, Aug. 22, 2012.