PaddleFest 2011 - A Brilliant Day on the Water

Paddlefest has been run for another year, on the shores of the beautiful Lake Macquarie. We were invited along by Lynn Parker from Paddle NSW, who along with her merry bunch of volunteers had arranged  a whole series of events revolving around paddlesports, all going off without a hitch during the day.
There was a 20km race, part of the Harbour Series that runs through Autumn, a shorter 10km race & a 5km fun paddle. Crews of chanting Dragon boaters ran heats along the lakeside to the cheers of the 500 strong crowd, Outrigger canoes competed against one another, sea kayakers paddled, edged & rolled in amongst the mayhem & there was a even a scratch race of craft constructed on the day using garbage bags, duck tape & cardboard.
We had a display set up with our demo boats which as usual were all out on the water being turned over by keen paddlers looking for their next purchase, and Rob, Chris James & I ran impromptu instruction sessions throughout the afternoon. We had a good turnout from the local Hunter Klanners, caught up with the ski racing guys we've gotten to know so well over the last year or so, & all up had a great day.

The short video below captures some of the colour & action of the day, & has a brief section showcasing Rob's Greenland rolling.

Thanks to the local Rotary club for putting on such a comprehensive paddling event, and also to Paddle NSW for broadening the spectrum by including the Harbour Series racers & instruction sessions. The team at Paddle NSW are doing some excellent work behind the scenes & deserve the support of all kayakers who like the idea of a body capable of representing our interests. Check out their website for a rundown of what they're all about.
Roll on PaddleFest 2012.