Considered Victoria’s premier gathering of water-based paddle craft, the annual Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge is happening again on Saturday, May 4, 2024, raising important funds for Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club.
The event gives all participants the chance to share in a number of ‘lucky draw’ prizes, all generously donated by sponsors big and small.
Bigger and better according to event organiser, Paul King, last year’s Paddle Challenge attracted more than 150 competitors who
despite wet and cold conditions completed the event “with big smiles”.
“Competitors described it as well organised, with a strong emphasis on water safety on the day, and one of the best Paddle Challenges ever,” Paul said.
“The 2024 Paddle Challenge promises to be bigger and better than ever, with more than 200 paddlers of varying ages and skill levels expected to take part.”
Paddle craft eligible to participate in the 2024 Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge, include surf skis, outrigger canoes, ocean racing skis, sit-on and sit-in kayaks, Hobie kayaks, sea kayaks, stand-up paddle (SUP) boards, prone paddle boards, canoes, surf boats, St Ayles skiffs, and coastal rowing boats.
Two courses The 27-kilometre challenge (elite paddlers) begins in Paynesville, while the 13km challenge (recreational paddlers) sets-off from Metung, with all paddlers eventually mixing to finish at Lakes Entrance.
Mates Challenge
The popular ‘Mates Challenge’ Category, which follows the 13km Metung course, can be contested on any two-person paddle craft, and participants can be as young as 10 to 15 years of age (if paddling in the same craft as an adult). All other categories start at 15 years of age.
Nature in Abundance
Paul said competitors are likely to spot an abundance of wildlife on the Lakes, which might include all kinds of sea birds – ranging from swans to sea eagles – as well as seals and “maybe even our own local pod of Gippsland Lakes Burrunan dolphins”.
Watercraft Hire
Those who are keen to participate, but don’t have their own water craft, can hire one.
“There will be two-person sea kayaks and two-person sit-on kayaks available for hire,” Paul explained.
“These are extremely stable and come complete with paddles, life jackets and free paddle sessions prior to the event.”
Surf skis and SUP’s are also available, with all hire craft delivered to the start line and collected at the end.
Safety First
Water safety is a priority for organisers, with 10 rescue craft spread over the course, and contingencies in place for reversing, relocating or rescheduling in the event of adverse weather.
Presentations
Place and lucky draw prize presentations – as well as light refreshments – will be happening at the Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club following the event.
Register
Online registration for the 2024 Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge opens on Monday, February 12, and closes on Sunday, April 28.
To register or find out more, visit the event website at gippslandlakespaddlechallenge.com.au and follow the Paddle Challenge Facebook page for event updates.
The annual Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge raises important funds for the Lakes Entrance Surf Lifesaving Club.
