PaddleHub to introduce families to kayaking during school holidays

Published on 18 March 2024

Corangamite Shire families can get a taste of kayaking at a free “come and try” day during the coming school holidays.

On Sunday morning, 14 April, Council will present a PaddleHub session at Lake Bullen Merri.

PaddleHub is a safe and easy way to introduce local families and residents to the joy of paddling on our beautiful Victorian lakes.

It will be run by a professional organisation, PaddleVIC, the State Sporting body for paddling and are affiliated to Paddle Australia.

Deputy Mayor Laurie Hickey is a keen kayaker. 

“Kayaking is a fabulous way to get some exercise, get the heart rate up and get out in nature,” Cr Hickey said.

“It’s a versatile pastime, gives you very easy access to our Shire’s lakes and waterways and it can be whatever you want to make of it.

“As their skills and fitness progress, some participants might choose to graduate to longer river paddles, offshore kayaking or taking part in adventure races like the Kangaroobie Klassic.

“PaddleHub will be a fantastic introduction to a wide range of possibilities.”

There will be three one-hour sessions for a maximum of 20 people each; at 10.30–11.30 am, 12–1 pm and 2–3 pm.

“It would be fantastic if this led to a local club being formed and more people paddling on Corangamite’ lakes and rivers.

“It is such a big lake that experienced paddlers are encouraged to come along on the day, make new connections, and share their experience and equipment with new paddlers. It would be fantastic to see a hundred kayaks on the lake at once.”

The craft PaddleHub will supply for the “come and try” day are single and double, adult sit on top kayaks as well as children’s single sit on tops kayaks.  Lifejackets are compulsory to wear and will be provided.

To book, which includes insurance cover for registered participants, click here.