Paddling with SGWAAC
Regular paddles are held from September through to June. Paddles are rated according to their level of difficulty. Weather conditions impact on difficulty level and may result in your registration being declined by the Paddle Leader based on risk assessment and your level of experience.
- Easy 2 hours paddling; 10-12kms
- Medium - 3-4 hours paddling; 10 – 20km
- Hard - 4+ hours paddling; 20km+
For members without equipment the club has 3 sea kayaks, 2 fibreglass river boats and equipment available (costs applicable). Boats are allocated on a first come basis. If you require equipment ( we will assist with transport) please contact the Paddle Coordinator to arrange a time to attend the storage facility in Mirboo North to assist load/unload required equipment.
‘Come and Try’ sessions or Paddle Programs for those wishing to improve their paddling abilities will be arranged as required to suit members. These sessions will provide mentoring, to improve skills and confidence, which combined with short paddle sessions will enable members to comfortably participate in longer paddles. Please contact the Paddle co-ordinator to request a session.
Self-rescue skill sessions (Cowwarr or Blue Rock all welcome) and exploratory paddles (for experienced paddlers only) are held from time to time subject to appropriate weather conditions.
Please see the Events Calender for a list of upcoming paddles. Paddles are conducted during winter subject to demand and suitable weather.
We paddle as a group. In the interests of safety and enjoyment of the paddle by all, a pre-requisite for participation in multiday events is that you have completed at least one day paddle with the club. Participation in paddles is at the discretion of the paddle leader.
PADDLE REQUIREMENTS:
All paddles depart at 9:30am unless otherwise advised.
Please arrive at the paddle venue at least 30 mins prior to departure time.
Please ensure all your equipment is in working order before the paddle.
All participants must wear shoes whilst paddling, comfortable clothing with due regard for the forecast weather. Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent recommended. BYO snacks/lunch on the day and at least 600ml of drinking water.
Please carry a small basic first aid kit and a completed Participant’s Emergency Contact and Medical Information form or card.
If you are intending to participate in a paddle, please register no later than the Wednesday evening prior to a paddle. The Paddle Coordinator will confirm with participants that the paddle is proceeding the day prior to the scheduled paddle, once a final weather check has been made.
Paddle Coordinator can be contacted on 0400 744 920