IF local groups or businesses are planning to enter a team for the Paddle Fest kayaking competitions on March 28, it is advisable to get on the water now, because the kids from Brighter Access might clean your clock.
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They might anyhow.
Several clients ranging in age from eight to 18 assembled at Lake Inverell on Tuesday evening for their twice-weekly paddle. Paddlefest organiser Heinrich Heinrich was effusive about the dedication of his young protégés.
“The kids come out Tuesday afternoon and Friday afternoon, and Connections comes out on Wednesday morning,” he said.
“They can paddle!”
Both Connections and Brighter Access are entering teams for the Paddle Fest. There are at least eight other local businesses and organisations committed to entering teams of three for the day on the lake, and more are welcome,
Brighter Access services manager Tanya Fox said the paddling training was made possible by Northcott Fundability support, and offered a great inclusive opportunity.
“It’s about being the best that you can be, and it’s up to you how good that is,” Tanya said.
“And they’re really showing that they’re able to hold their own on the water and they’re just like everyone else. And that’s what it’s all about.”
Eight-year-old Crystal Goodworth-Bell was confident about her ability in a kayak. “When I came here, it was my first time. Now I’m good at it,” Crystal said with pride.
Will Ryan has been the team leader several times, kayaking with the yellow paddle.
Local trainer Kate Auld has been assisting with the paddles. She said many of the paddlers are coming out twice a week, building their strength and stamina.
“It’s great. Just in the few weeks that we’ve been doing it, well, it’s been longer than a few weeks now, you can see we get to paddle further each time with the kids,” Kate said.
“We’ve managed to kayak right up into the river system, as far as the kayaks can go.”
Paddle Fest begins on Saturday, March 28 at Lake Inverell with a day filled with community paddles, fun kayak races and specialty events. Sunday, March 29, the action shifts to Copeton Dam for a long paddle. More information about the paddle, the new Inverell Joeys Kayak Club can be found on Facebook:
Joeys Adventure Kayaking Tours, or phone 0427 210 359.
