Sandgate Canoe Club

Newsletter

December 2015

Pumicestone Passage by Kaye

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From the Presidents Deck Chair December 2015

Hi Paddlers

What an enjoyable afternoon it was at QCYC for the 60 of us who attended the Christmas party on 15 November. There is nothing like the salubrious atmosphere of the Yacht Club set against the back drop of our own creeks with good food, ample beverages and a couple of crazy, wig wearing members compares to end a great year on the water! I sensed a lovely vibe as people chilled out and really enjoyed catching up with each other off the water...a sign that perhaps we should do more of it!

The Awards presented at the Christmas Party really show the strength of the Club. From the more, light hearted DAD Joke and Calendar Girl Awards to the very important awards for those who have done our Club proud on the water this year and over many years. Congratulations to all award winners, who you can read about further in.

As the year closes there is of course the Annual Vice Presidents' Paddle on 19 December. On page 12 Barry & Charmaine provide details of the paddle and request your RSVP for catering. Mike Parsons is looking forward to having as many as possible join in.

The committee are already planning and thinking about our year ahead in 2016. We have our Strategic Planning standing agenda item and are always keen for members input on our future direction. Of importance to me first up in 2016 is planning for the annual Wetlands Wander event. If you would like to be part of the planning committee please contact myself or Melissa Bull. If you would like to volunteer as an official, cook, prize giver or any other contributing role please let us know.

On behalf of myself and all the Committee members I wish you all a joyful Christmas and hope that Santa brings you whatever paddling gear you have asked for.

Merry Christmas,

Chris

Moreton Trip First Night Sunet by Janet Lindsay

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Welcome Welcome to the Sandgate Canoe Club December newsletter.

In this issue we have

There is the Moreton Island Camp and the Hinchinbrook Island Trip by Kaye and Cheryl. Also there is Gerard, Tina and Craig trip to Keppel Island.

We have the progress results for the King Billy Cup.

The ARVPIPCP (Annual Retired Vice President Invitational Pre-Christmas Paddle) is on the 19th December 2015.

During the first aid course on the 28 November 2015 Mark Otter presented a summary table of treatment for Bites and Stings. The table is on page 21. Also on the same page is a link to an Australian Government site with information on a smart phone emergency App.

There will not be a normal newsletter in January. We will be looking for your contributions near the end of January for the February newsletter.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

As always thanks are due to the many people who make this newsletter possible.

Take Care

Andrew Contoleon

Newsletter Editor

New Members

Over the last few weeks we have had many inquiries from people wishing to join the club as experienced paddlers or new members wishing to complete the Basic Skills Course. Some have decided to complete the

Basic Skills training in December and several others will do the Basic Skills training in February.

The Sandgate Canoe Club welcomes our newest members. William Mansell, Neil McMahon, Karen Stone, Ian Harding, Clelia Nelson, Glenda Whiteford, Ruth Williams, Claire Brereton, Catherine Cates.

them the best of luck for their upcoming Basic Skills Course and future paddling experiences with the Sandgate Canoe Club

Ian McDade SCC Membership Coordinator Margaret Micale Basic Skills Coordinator

Moreton Trip - Little Sand Hills by Richard Womack

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Home for Christmas: SCC Ushers in the Season

truly spoilt to call Sandgate/Shorncliffe ours.

Under blue skies and with a familiar breeze, 40 or so members, family and friends assembled at the QCYC on Sunday November 12 to celebrate another golden year of paddling.

Drinks on the lawn got the day underway, and as high tide passed by on Cabbage Tree Creek, many seemed genuinely surprised at how beautiful our club waters are from the shore.

Clearly it is so much easier to take in the view with a relaxed chardonnay in hand instead of a racing paddle! That playful breeze seems so much friendlier on dry land! And everyone was at least 50% more attractive

r all.

So there were smiles all-round as the lovely ladies of the QCYC showed us to our tables for a long lunch where every choice seemed a winner. Compliments to the chef and staff, who made the day unfold in a relaxed and particularly tasty way.

Before the crowd could get too rowdy, Chrissy and John retired to the wig box and emerged wearing traditional SCC Ceremonial Headdresses which signalled the start of the Awards formalities.

Once again it is the commitment and participation of members that has made 2015 another strong, exciting year for our club.

Diamond Award, Life Membership, Paddler of the Year and Most Improved Paddler.

Much to the amusement of the crowd, the characters among us were also decorated for their antics during the year, having been dobbed in by their so-called friends and fellow paddlers.

A complete account of the awards and their recipients can be found following this article.

As those who were there will attest, the afternoon wore on in the most delightful and ambient way around those tables on the creek: a couple of drinks and talk of paddling, other less memorable topics, and of course, more paddling. Just how we like it!

Many thanks to John Blackley and team for organising a fantastic day. It was great to be together in such a fabulous location

Michelle Fraser

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SCC Annual Awards 2015 Honouring Outstanding Achievements and Contributions

On Sunday 12th of paddling, and in particular, the heroics of the Annual Award recipients.

The Annual Awards ceremony had all the hallmarks of a red carpet evpaparazzi, and a list of winners shrouded in secrecy.

club whose achievements and contributions have defined our paddling success in 2015.

Diamond Award

outstanding contribution to the club. This year, the Diamond Award winners were:

Kaye Watson

Kaye is one of the most recognisable faces at the club because of her active involvement across all of the paddling disciplines. A fearless and accomplished sea kayaker, Kaye is a regular organiser, leader and participant in club trips and rescue training activities. She is also formidable on the flat water in her TK1, having won the King Billy Cup Time Trial

the water has always been evident.

st gift to the club is the time she has invested in volunteer management roles. In the past she has served as a Treasurer, committee member and until recently was editor-in-chief of the club newsletter and website.

As anyone who has produced communication material will attest, it is a demanding task to gather and spread the

together.

Selwyn Gray As a long-term member and skilled Sea Kayaker, Selwyn is well known for his generosity, leadership, experience and organisational abilities. Selwyn has served the club as grievance officer, equipment officer and social co-ordinator, and has spent years planning and leading successful trips as an enthusiastic member of the paddle planning committee.

In particular Selwyn has enabled the sea kayaking group to experience the joys of paddle & camp expeditions (including 4 to Moreton Is), which involve complicated arrangements and significant responsibility.

Selwyn is appreciated and relied upon by the paddling group for the confidence he brings to events, his commitment, sense of fun and attention to detail. He is especially helpful to new paddlers, and always makes time to assist those who are still finding their confidence at sea.

sea kayaking safety protocols, regularly participating in, convening and facilitating meetings.

Paddler of the Year

Paul Lange Although every year seems to be a busy and successful paddling year for Paul (he is nearly always out front at training and the man to beat in races), 2015 was particularly significant. In October, Paul recorded an outstanding performance at the gruelling Hawkesbury Canoe Classic (HCC), which involves a 111km paddle throughout the night down the Hawkesbury River.

rd across the line overall, 18th to finish of the single craft, and his time of 10:52hrs was well and truly within his sub-11hr goal.

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Hawkesbury greatness demanded discipline and commitment, including many long paddles. In fact 30 and 40km sessions became normal for both days on the weekend.

The Polar Bears, as they became affectionately known over winter, proceeded to train throughout the year - even in the dark and cold. Paul even organised and co-ordinated overnight paddles in preparation for the HCC event.

While doing this Paul also fronted up for local races, and while he didn't train for the much shorter distances that were involved, he still managed to perform well.

He competed in 6 out of 8 of the Chris Hurley Cup races, with 5 podium finishes (2 x gold,1 x silver 2 x bronze), in large and extremely competitive fields. Without any specific race training Paul came 2nd overall in the Series.

Paul also raced in both singles and doubles in the QLD state marathon champs, and doubles in the Sunshine Coast Dunethin Rocks race. (Racing in doubles with Armand 'the nut' Le Roux).

Young Paddler of the Year

Cameron Mason

This year, for the first time, Sandgate Canoe Club was well represented in the youth ranks of kayak racing, with Cameron Mason flying the black and yellow flag.

At just 13, Cameron Mason, has only been paddling (and alive, compared to the rest of us) for a short time, but is already showing huge paddling promise.

This year Cameron competed in both the Chris Hurley Cup and the Northern Rivers Marathon Series. Both series consist of eight races, and Cameron contested seven out of eight in both competitions. He remained unbeaten in his Under 14 TK1 category for the entire series.

Cameron also took out the Queensland title for the Marathon State Championship for Under14 TK1 class.

Congratulations Cameron, we look forward to watching your racing develop in 2016.

Most Improved Paddler

Armand le Roux - Racing

Armand is one of the racing group who, while paddling in the reaches of

Believed to have been introduced to the area by Paul Lange initially, the main symptom of this condition is an overwhelming urge to train copiously in all climatic conditions. Armand subsequently joined the colony of afflicted paddlers known as the Polar Bears, and proceeded to train throughout winter at dark and ungodly hours of the morning.

In the season led to tangible improvements in his fitness, pace and technique.

throughout the night down the river for which it is named. Armand responded with excellent results in this regard, clocking a race time of under 12 hours.

Armand also participated in local racing series, representing SCC well, even though it was not the focus of his

and support of his team mates played an important part in the overall success of the Hawkesbury campaign.

Bug symptoms have subsided post-treatment, but there is always the possibility of an annual relapse!

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Kim Smith Sea Kayaking

Kim is a wonderful example of how persistence and commitment over a period of time allows paddlers to tap into their potential.

Over the past 12-24 months Kim's paddling has progressed from the short distance outings to now being able to undertake the long 20+ km paddles.

Making the leap into long distance paddling does not happen overnight, as paddlers have to be physically prepared to cover the trip in a range of conditions. Kim has become capable of maintaining a strong ongoing paddle rate within the group, even in testing conditions.

Life Member Bruce Pilcher

To be named a life member of Sandgate Canoe Club celebrates more than just a long association with our group. It marks an extraordinary contribution that has shaped the success of our club over time. It is awarded with sincere appreciation, and with a desire for that member to always be at the heart of our club, wherever life may take them.

Bruce Pilcher, our newly appointed Life Member, is a popular and deserving recipient. As one of the most senior members of the club, Bruce is an inspiration to paddlers of all stripes, and a wonderful ambassador for our club and sport.

Please take a moment to read our interview with Bruce after this article.

Coach Award - Melissa Bull

2015 was a big year for the racing group, with some lofty goals on the line. And while there was no questioning the enthusiasm, early morning commitment and hard yakka from the paddlers, the entire Hawkesbury project could have come to naught without Melissa Bull: brains trust, disciplinarian and coach extraordinaire.

Melissa masterminded the training plans that over the course of the year, transformed a bunch of Hawkesbury hopefuls into Polar Bears, and then hardened marathon paddlers.

In amongst this, she also found time to provide the remaining race squad members with training plans, encouragement and advice for achieving a range of individual paddling goals.

an asset to the racing group, and the race results this year are a tribute to her coaching excellence.

Hawkesbury Support Crew - Melissa Bull, Ron Roberts, Cheryl Christensen, Bruce Pilcher

enabled by a band of volunteers who headed south to provide ground support to each of the competitors before, during and after the race.

Transport, boat preparation, safety checks, supply of food and hydration, and other crucial tasks performed by Melissa, Ron, Cheryl and Bruce ensured that our team could pursue their Hawkesbury vision, contesting the race safely and to the best of their ability.

Ron at HCC

From Left:-John. Melissa, Chris, Bruce and Cheryl.

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Calendar Girl Pat Woon great to be ahead of the game, prompt and organised, but it can go too

far. Take Pat Woon, who masterminded a much anticipated paddle event. She turned up with plenty of time to spare 24 hours early in fact, only to find nobody else shared her early-bird approach. Disappointing. People these

Gary Utz

This award acknowledges Gary for organizing Safety and Recue Days. Gary with Kaye Watson have facilitated Safety and Recue Days which are designed to develop skills of members. He is also known for his demonstration of kayak rolling, for example at the Rotary Duck and Water Festival.

who can turn on a show

He moves through the seas With the greatest of ease

Gary Utz is his name

Come witness his skills, Hone your roll/rescue drills

Camp Award Selwyn Gray

As previously mentioned Selwyn Gray is revered in sea-kayaking circles for his superior organisational skills, particularly when planning the many details of camping trips. No amount of effort is too great to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of participants. Jokes about feathers and pink handbags aside, Selwyn is a deserving recipient of the Camp Award in the literal sense.

Turtle Award Greg Litherland

times, always fending off other

to other members of the racing squad throughout the year makes him an undisputed winner once again in 2015. Have-a-Chat Award Chris Gissing

Only a true stateswoman can engage in meaningful conversation during marathon training without needing to pause for breath. Our president Chris Gissing, the consummate multi-tasker and diplomat, proved this many times over during Hawkesbury training this year, leaving less accomplished

something in that for all of us.

PPPP Award Paul Lange The Polar Bear experience was a learning curve for all involved. After all, strange things

rigour of pause between strokes. It changed her paddling for good.

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Dad Joker Award Lachlan Carkeet In the gaps when Chrissy was not making conversation during those cold, dark Polar Bear Sessions, Lachlan Carkeet stepped up to fill the awkward silence with his own brand of comedy. It is well known that racers go faster and work harder when subjected to a steady stream of Dad Jokes during training. For those unfortunate

attempt to pass these off as your own):

1. A bear walks into a bar and says to the bartender, "I'll have a pint of beer and a........................................................................ packet of peanuts."

The bartender says "Sure, but why the big pause?"

2. A ham sandwich walks into a bar and orders a beer.

3. And finally....(please allow full training session for this one)

A rabbit walks into a pub and says to the barman "Can I have a pint of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie." The barman is amazed but gives the rabbit a pint of beer and a ham and cheese toastie. The rabbit drinks the beer and eats the toastie, he then leaves. The following night the rabbit returns and again asks for a Pint of Beer and a Ham and Cheese toastie. The barman, now intrigued by the rabbit and the extra drinkers in the pub (because word gets round) gives the rabbit the pint and the toastie. The rabbit consumes them and leaves. The next night, the pub is packed, in walks the rabbit and says "A pint of beer and a Ham and Cheese toastie, please barman." The crowd is hushed as the barman gives the rabbit his pint and toastie and then burst into applause as the rabbit wolfs them down then walks out. The next night there is standing room only in the pub, coaches have been laid on for the crowds of patrons attending, the barman is making more money in one week than he did all last year. In walks the rabbit and says, "A Pint of Beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie, please barman", smiling and accepting the tributes of the masses. The barman says, "I'm sorry rabbit, old mate, old mucker but we are right out of them Ham and Cheese Toasties" The rabbit looks aghast, the crowd has quietened to almost a whisper, when the barman clears his throat nervously and says, "We do have a very nice Cheese and Onion Toastie" The rabbit looks him in the eye and says, "Are you sure I will like it"? The masses bated breath is ear shatteringly silent. The barman, with a roguish smile says, "Do you think that I would let down one of my best friends, I know you'll love it" "Ok" says the rabbit," I'll have a Pint of Beer and a Cheese and Onion Toastie" The pub erupts with glee as the rabbit quaffs the beer and guzzles the toastie, he then waves to the crowd and leaves. NEVER TO RETURN!!!!!! One year later in the now impoverished public house, the barman (who has only served 4 drinks tonight, 3 of which were his) calls time. When he is cleaning down the now empty bar, he sees a small white form, floating above the bar. The barman says, "Who are you" To which he is answered, "I am the ghost of the rabbit that used to frequent your public house" The barman says, "I remember you, you made me famous, you would come in every night and have a Pint of Beer and a Ham and Cheese toastie, masses came to see you and this place was famous."

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The rabbit said, "Yes I know" The barman said, "I remember, on your last night we didn't have any Ham and Cheese Toasties, you had a Cheese and Onion one instead." The rabbit said "Yes, you promised me that I would love it." The barman said "You never came back, after that fateful night, what happened." "I DIED", said the Rabbit. "Blimey " said the barman, "what from?" The rabbit said... "Mixing me toasties." Michelle Fraser Photos Alan Cameron, Michelle Fraser and Andrew Contoleon

Meet Bruce Pilcher

Paddler, Friend and Member for Life

For those who were present at the awards ceremony, perhaps the most memorable event of the day was when Bruce Pilcher stepped up to receive his Life Membership.

Drowned out by applause, and overcome by the moment, the ever-humble, always gentlemanly Bruceevident.

Read on as we delve into the life and times of one of our favourite SCC friends...

Q: When did you first join SCC and what/who brought you to the club?

I was always very active, involved in athletics and Rugby Union, as well as 16 years as an Army reservist, till age 34. In

twice a week.

iconic paddler, Sal Gardiner, and at foggy 5am training sessions through the winter, began to learn to stay in the tippy

Through paddling connections I met Cheryl and she was also into cycle touring, so I had to learn to ride a bike again too. Her job meant that she was able to paddle mid-week and she found that Sandgate Club had week day paddles and we both joined the club in 2000.

We moved to Brighton early in 2007, after linking with Sandgate in about 2004. Our interest was and still is primarily in Sea Kayaking, with trips away a bonus.

Q: How did your paddling interest evolve since joining what kinds of paddling are you most involved with/interested in?

training with Ross Cook. Later we joined with the newly formed Queensland Sea Kayak Club at its inception, with an aim to improve our sea kayaking skills.

it useful when my time was limited: I could go for a paddle, and be home within two hours, rather than spending a full day on travelling to, and doing a sea kayaking trip.

Q: Most members are aware of your term as President in 2014. Have you held other volunteer roles within the club?

I had experience with book-stayed in the job for 6 years alongside 5 different Presidents until I was elected President myself in 2014.

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Besides having a particular job on the Committee I was also able to help with some of the organising for radio courses, Wetlands Wander paperwork, and a few other administrative things over those years.

Q: Do you have any particularly memorable SCC moments to share?

to them).

Numerous Sea Kayaking trips, and the fun and the talNovember 2015 trip.

And of course, gaining kayaking skills has also added to enjoyment when paddling when visiting other places, in New Zealand, 2000, and Palau in 2013.

Q: What do you think are the strengths of SCC?

We have an excellent club spirit at Sandgate, and members from all sections and varied skill sets in the Club are always willing to pitch in and help, whether it be volunteers at the Wetlands Wander event or a display on an Open Day.

Those with more advanced paddling technical skills are always willing to put time into preparation and then passing

Q: How would you like to see the club evolve in the future?

There needs to be a steady flow of new people coming to the club. We should encourage this by having our name out there in the public, and encourage Basic Skills training.

With an average age of 57 years, it is natural that members will move on to more leisurely interests. Having around 100 members is a comfortable level, and with three groups active within the Club we cater for all levels of interest.

paddlers, as we may want them to, but some special ones will, and have done, and that is why we have such a great Club today.

Q: In many ways you are respected as one of the patriarchs of our club. Many of us aspire to be like you fit, energetic, youthful and still paddling when we reach your level of maturity What is your secret?

I guess that trying

absorbed in just one part of all that is there.

Q: How did you feel about being made a life member?

I was amazed and completely lost for words when the announcement was made, and this is why:

Prior to the Christmas Party, I sent an email to President Chris with a couple of Nominations for other

myself about Life Membership.

rarely

of an outstanding candidate. Perhaps another during

Michelle Fraser

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Calling on Paddlers for the ARVPIPCP: 19th December 2015 (Annual Retired Vice President Invitational Pre -Christmas Paddle)

Club Members ime to consider your attendance at the upcoming, last paddle before Christmas the ARVPIPCP.

Agenda for the day will be: Departing Yundah St destination to advise closer to the day when winds and weather are known

Trip briefing 0750

On water and gone 0800

Special morning tea en-route at stop over

Back to Yundah St by 1100

Fully catered fresh lunch and Christmas cake from 1130 o $3 in gold coin donation per attendee o Non-paddlers and Family members welcome to attend the lunch

Coffee van from 1130

So what to do: Check your diary clear what you were going to do as this is a must attend event!

Advise if o you are going to paddle and attend lunch, or o just attend the lunch, and o your significant other is going to attend the lunch

We know given this is a regular event there is no need to explain the acronym. As astute readers will be aware, this year it is different what is the difference We look forward to your replies and confirmation of your attendance by phone, text, email or in person. Barry & Charmaine renoclan@bigpond.net.au 0417733889 / 0418986552

mailto:renoclan@bigpond.net.au

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Racing News Racing Group Report

The racing group has reset after the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic. Training for the Sprint Championships in late

January and the National Marathon Championships in late March has begun with a vengeance and already

four weeks of hard training has been laid down.

People are so enthused with training there are now two training groups to choose from on Tuesdays and

Thursdays, a 5am group and a 5.30am group. I am taking the 5am group and Melissa is taking the late group. I

have been informed by a reliable source (Colleen) that Melissa's group is the more difficult of the two groups.

At this time of year there is no inter club racing to be had, however this is a good time to remind people that

Sandgate has a doubles race on the second Saturday of every month and a singles race on the third Saturday

of each month. Although we call them doubles and singles races, anyone with a heart-beat, something that

floats and a non-mechanical means of propulsion is welcome to attend. In fact the last singles race was won by

Jack and Glen (much to their surprise) in their C2. I say surprise mainly because Jack is always quite vocal about

the poor handicapping. If you're reading this Jack, you are probably unlikely to get such a good handicap again.

Paul M Lange

Racing report adjunct

On Sunday 1 November a number of paddlers from the club competed in the third and final race in the Varsity Race series. The event was mooted as a fun event comprising two 5 km races with about 40 minutes between each. The course was set out in front of the Varsity Lakes club house in a rectangular configuration with the long legs comprising about 500m directly into the wind and the short legs being 100m across wind. With the wind picking up from 15 to 20 knots it was an event destined to test the swimming skills of some. But not this little black duck. By the end of the day a number of club members had medaled

got what). This event also concluded the Chris Hurley paddlers cup, with a Paul Lang, Lawrie Fagan, and Matthew all picking up medals (I cant remember who got what).

The following Sunday Armand le Roux and I headed down to Tumbulgum for the first Tweed Tumbulgum Classic marathon race. This was an event I had personally been looking forward to for most of the year and I can now say it is one permanently fixed in my diary. The course is unique in that it runs upstream along the Tweed River from Tumbulgum to Murwullimbah, then cuts through the cane fields via Myall Creek and back down the Rous River to the start finishing with a 200m sprint from the last turn buoy into the now fast running tide (the lo

this race is destined to be the classic its name suggests.

Lachlan Carkeet

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King Billy Cup The Progress results for the King Billy Cup to 19 November are in the table below.

Dates 8 10 5 11 19 11 3 12 3 3 8/10/15 to

3/3/16

Name H1 H2 H3 H4 H

5-9 H10

First Pl. Pts. Est

PBTime

New PB

Time Total

PB Pts Total Pts Craft

Peter K 1pt 1pt 0

1 35:14

1 4 SUP

Bevan F.T.x1 1pt 0 0

25:57

1 O/Ski

Bevan 0 1pt 1pt

28:05 27:38 1 3 K1

Tim 1pt 1pt 0

29:56

1 3 TK1

Nev 1pt 1pt 1pt

31:58

1 4 TK1

Simon 1pt 0 0

39:24

1 SUP

Melissa 1pt 1pt 1pt

28:55 28:46 1 4 K1

Armand 1pt 0 0

28:06

1 O/Ski

Armand 0 1pt 1pt

27:42

2 K1

Adrian 1pt 0 0

33:39

1 SeaK

Michelle 1pt 1pt 1pt

29:17 28:52 2 5 K1

Trent 1pt 1pt 1pt

28:15

1 4 K1

Greg 1pt 1pt 1pt

30:27

1 4 K1

Kaye 1pt 1pt 0

34:15

1 3 TK1

Gavin F.T. x1 1pt 1pt 0

25:31

1 3 K1

Lachlan 1pt 1pt 0

29:04

1 3 K1

Glen 1pt 1pt 0

38:54

1 3 SUP

Jason A 1pt 0 1pt

42:21

2 SUP

Mark B 1pt 1pt 0

43:28

1 3 SUP

Bruce 1pt 1pt 1pt

35:17

3 TK1

Cheryl 1pt0 1pt0 1pt0

3 TK1

Chris G 1pt0 0 1pt

28:06

2 K1

Andrew C 1pt0 1pt0 1pt0

3 S/K

Lawrie 1pt0 1pt0 1pt0

3 K1

Lincoln 0 1pt 0

1 31:52

2 SUP

Scott C 0 1pt 1pt

1 37:19 37:14 1 4 SUP

Jason K 0 1pt 0

35:49

1 SUP

Allan B 0 1pt 0

31:39

1 K1

Bill Y 0 1pt 0

34:03

1 TK1

Paul L F.T.x1 0 1pt 1pt

27:09 26:22 1 3 K1

Rob/Colleen 0 1pt 1pt

30:17 29:59 1 3 TK2

Mike/Linda 0 1pt 0

30:34

1 TK2

Mark M 0 0 1pt

31:25

1 K1

Darren 0 0 1pt

38:40

1 SUP

Jack/Mick 0 0 1pt

29:30

1 OR/2

Johno 0 0 1pt

29:44

1 O/Ski

Provided by Lawrie Fagan

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Sea Kayaking News and Trip Reports Moreton Island Adventure - a World away, but only 35km from Brisbane! 30th October - 2nd November 2015 The Club has been trying to have meaningful Moreton trip for some time, adverse weather stopped some of us on Green Island for four days, years back, and unsuitable tides have meant it has not been easy to organise this event.

Camping Paddlers were: Gary Bergman, Cheryl Christensen, Mick Geary, Selwyn Gray, Janet Lindsay, Michael Locke, Graham Moorhead, Bill Murray, Bruce Pilcher, Richard Sharpe, Graham Swinbourne, Richard Womack.

It was really good to have two newer Club members with us, Janet Lindsay and Graham Swinbourne. Both are experienced campers, competent paddlers, and contributed very much to the success of the trip.

Day 1 - Friday 30th October Finally, after months of planning by Selwyn and Graham M, twelve of us were at Whyte Island at the Micat terminal

into our kayaks prior to

However, would we fit all that stuff inside the hatches? with the thought we would be repeating the reloading of those heavy boats, several times in the days ahead, as we moved camp on our trip.

k on this modern vessel, we could see Brisbane awakening to a business day, and we lucky ones were not on the payroll. Coffee and hot food was available and in comfort we looked back on the early morning haze over the City.

More attractive and fuelling our expectations, the views to Moreton Island with its distinctive sand slips contrasting with the dark green bush and added to the excitement, so the 90 minute journey passed quickly.

Tangalooma powered up the white sandy beach ramp down, and the dozens of vehicles poured out onto the sand, as campers and fishermen were off for their fun.

Then we dragged, and lifted those heavy boats, wheeled them down the ramp, and off the vessel. The crew wanted us off quickly. It was full tide and they also had to be off and away.

We found that six people, 4 with straps under the boats, and with the kayaks on trailers could move our gear reasonably well across the soft sand.

On that first day the plan was to paddle south, 3.6km from the Wrecks, to our first Campsite, we saw a couple of dolphins on the way, and landed there without incident early in the afternoon. We paddled past the privately owned Tangalooma Resort which we learned later, can accommodate 2000 people.

We each selected our spot to put the tent up, about 30m back from high water mark and sheltered from any westerlies by small dunes closer to the water.

Then there was debate as where the communal tarp

while Graham and Selwyn could not fully agree. Cheryl with considerable camping experience helped to decide on a

extraordinaire installation!

just like we were experiencing!

her trees to establish her camping spot for the night!

Then a refreshing swim before dinner.

plenty of big container ships only a few hundred metres away and realised how the shape of sea-going vessels have changed rapidly over recent times, and how busy the Port of Brisbane is, and how fast those ships move!

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Day 2 - Saturday 31st October

Destination - The Big Sand -hills -12.8 km to the South

We set off at 9am our MI relaxed start time! In beautiful clear water with light winds, enjoying the effect of the sun causing the creamy white sand on the skyline, to sparkle under its rays as it rose higher during our paddle.

After we reached the distance travelled between those technically inclined.was it 12 or 12.03 or 12.001? (for the purpose of this article, the writer has accepted the longer distance recorded.. that recorder has been known toccasionally, but Richard S made the first contribution to this article and that was very much appreciated!)

Regardless of the measurement Selwyn had stressed that we rely not just on technical, but on the sight of the described camping spot. And we did, and

that was where the fresh water pump was!

The camp site was level, sheltered, and after lunch some had a swim, others climbed the Big Sand-hills. This was a buzz, not only for the extensive views, but the sense of achievement for those who made the considerable effort up the soft slopes.

The pump did provide fresh water, and was swallowed at least by the writer with no problem. How good it was to rinse the saltiness off after the swim

two hot showers a day) camping makes one appreciate home!

be ready .

Day 3 - Sunday 1st November

South to Korringal and return - which turned out to be a 22.8km round trip.

This was to all of us an experience that none could have imagined would be as varied and interesting as it turned out to be. shore, wild life has a free run and we had the privilege of getting close to it.

We saw sting rays in their hundreds, light brown, small ones up to half a metre across, darting away as we quietly paddled across them. The older (wiser) ones, often would just stay still, their thicker bodies blending in with the colour of the sand. This was near the Blue Hole which we paddled towards, across seagrass underwater lawns indicating the strong current as we headed toward Crab Island.

We had seen many turtles, heads breaking the surface as they came up for air (and a quick look at us?) and then only to be seen as a shadow under the water as they swam rapidly away!

Most of us saw shovelnose sharks, flathead and star fish

metres deep and surprised a group of four towards the surface each breaking away and going in four different directions rather like the aerobatics group in the UK!

Richard Womack and Gary Bergman

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Michael L and Graham M paddled with turtles alongside them and Janet saw a green turtle next to her in the crystal clear water, and

We stopped at Kooringal near the southern end of Moreton, after

buildings off to the East, but fortunately this was recognised as

After a burger, and a beer for some, we decided to paddle back via re was another nature

a wild life sanctuary.

Some saw schools of fish, whiting, mullet, and bream, just

Besides more schools of rays I saw a bottle nosed turtle in the

had seen that day, and

emitting a croaky equally ugly sound!

We each explored parts of the mangrove area , and looked ou

pump wash after the swim.

With all of us washed and refreshed, the cooking fun continued tonight including a fascinating cook commentary from Graham M pressured by the audience to defend his chicken a

Gary had 250 Classic Rocks on his Ipod (with him) and the best he can do

imagined, let alone watched!

Day 4 - Monday 2nd November

Back to Tangalooma and to Camp at the Wre cks campsite 17.3 km for the day.

impressed. Then after packing we were off North into an expected 12 knot wind, and against the tide. We had a good paddle plan, stuck to it, and after a challenging couple of hours stopped for a break when we stretched, had a light morning tea.

waves and kept in a group in fairly exciting seas. Nobody came out and all would have experienced the occasional adrenalin rush! We rounded the last point where the

I loved the clear sighting of the dugong on the return to Tangalooma. He was a great sight after a long hard slog into the wind and tide.

Being a little weary from four a half hours of slogging through the waves we decided to cut short our planned paddle to the Ben Ewa campsite further north, and see if sites were available at the closer campsite near the Wrecks.

Yes they were, so we spent our last evening there, after a swim, a FRESH WATER shower, it was a reasonably eathe wine had run out?

Gutter Bar - From Left to Right Cheryl (at rear), Richard S, Mick, Graham M, Janet, Michael, Selwyn (rear), Bill and Graham Swinbourne

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Day 5 - Tuesday 2nd November

- then Back to the Mainland

Early risers Richard and Richard decided that they should walk up to the Ben Ewa Campsite before breakfast, to check

With the kayaks ready to go we wandered down to the Resort for coffee, then lunch, catching up again with SCC member Linda Parsons; her job, coincidentally had placed her at Tangalooma for the weekend.

It was Melbourne Cup Day, but little sign of anything special happening, but we were amused by a young Asian lady

Then a slow walk back, another swim for some, and we got ready to board the Micat at 3pm.

The MI 2015 group thanks Graham and Selwyn for the thoughtful advance planning, and Selwyn particularly for his Leadership during the Adventure which required flexibility to handle the changing conditions. Fortunately we enjoyed perfect weather over the five days, which made it even more successful.

Bruce Pilcher

Photos by Richard Womack and Janet Lindsay

A family adventure in the Keppel Islands Gerard, Tina, Jillian & Alyse Effeney, Craig Robinson. Sept 28 -Oct 1, 2015

After some wonderful experiences sea kayaking in the Whitsundays and Hinchinbrook Island last year, we were looking for another destination for a family kayaking adventure, but one that did not

th of Brisbane and islands here are characterized by rocky headlands, grassy hills, sweeping sandy beaches and crystal clear water. It turned out to be a wonderful place to spend some time during the recent September school holidays and the paddling was just the right level of challenge for our children Jillian (11) and Alyse (9). Craig Robinson joined us in a single kayak to give us an extra adult/kayak and margin of safety.

Conditions for our four day trip were light north/north easterlies with plenty of sunshine and blue skies. Day one involved an easy 15km crossing from Emu Park on the mainland to Humpy Island. This was the longest open water crossing our girls have done to date and they handled it well. Humpy Island has an abundance of excellent campsites under mature

where we indulged in lots of swimming, bushwalking, reading books, hammock lounging, star gazing and cooked some delicious meals and treats.

An anti-clockwise circumnavigation of Great Keppel Island was decided upon as the goal for day 2. A close encounter with a family of dolphins and ice-creams from the shop on the island were some of the highlights.

Day 3 involved a search for the perfect snorkelling spot around the bays and beaches of Great Keppel but the coral was disappointing compared to the Whitsundays.

Strengthening winds in the afternoon meant we had a quick run back to Humpy under sail. It was hard to pack up and say good bye to tropical paradise on the last day but a return trip is already being planned.

Gerard & Tina Effeney

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Hinchinbrook

Having left Whitsunday Island on Scamper we arrived back in Shute Harbour and the FlameTree Caravan Park - lots of washing of gear, clothes and finally a warm shower- bliss! Followed by a proper dinner at the yacht club.

The next day we drove through very dry countryside. The highway just outside Townsville was closed due to a bushfire that jumped the road, lots of smoke; however it was eventually opened again and we spent the night in Townsville and then drove to Mission Beach the following day, stopping for crab sandwiches at Cardwell. Leaving the highway at Tully to head towards Mission Beach there are lots of signs warning of Cassowary's; we kept a look out but did not see any on the way in. The next day we were luckier and spotted a dad and baby along the roadside.

Another "Clayton's paddler", Irena, joined us in Mission beach for our Hinchinbrook Island Trip which was organised by Coral Sea Kayaking. We met our guides Dave and Michelle and the other 9 members of the group and the following day we were bussed to Lucinda where the kayaks were loaded - this was organised akin to military precision by our guides, it was best to step back and leave them to it, they had obviously done this before!

Lucinda Beach - getting ready

After lunch, we all launched in double kayaks, except Cheryl who had chosen to paddle her Polar Bear. We only had a short crossing to the Southern end of Hinchinbrook to George's Point where we stopped for the night. Managing the kayaks was made easy by having 10 people per kayak lift them up the beach - it only took six people for the singles! Our guides surprised us with a three course dinner as we comfortably got to know our fellow paddlers; no wonder the kayaks were so heavy; the quality of the meals remained excellent for the whole trip, it certainly was an improvement on the rice and tuna diet I had in the Whitsundays, and just showed what can be achieved with some imagination.

Day 2 of the trip - the wind were still high and from the South East and we launched into some of the roughest seas I have paddled in, however in the doubles, we were very stable, managing to follow our guide Michelle around Hillock Point to beautiful (and calm) Zoe Bay with Mount Bowen as a backdrop. We got to explore some of the rainforest by following Zoe creek where we could refill the water containers and then up to Zoe falls, for a refreshing swim.

Zoe Falls

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After another challenging paddle, our next camp site was at Blacksand Beach, a beautiful spot where we could camp right on the sand.

Cheryl did an awesome job paddling her single kayak, the first two days paddling was very challenging even in the doubles.

A swim followed by a walk up to Nina Peak (not quite to the top for some of us) filled in the afternoon.

Looking North from Nina Peak

The following day we paddled the length of Ramsay Bay around Cape Sandwich to Sunset Beach. The weather as well as the scenery changed, the wind had dropped the clouds disappeared and the rocky shoreline and rain forest was replaced with sand dunes and sparse vegetation.

Leaving the marine park some put in fishing lines hoping for a catch, however our guide Dave was the only lucky one - fresh fish for lunch. Hammocks were unfurled in the afternoon, swimming was also a favourite activity; anything to keep the sandflies away.

Day 5 and after a leisurely start we headed towards the northern end of the island

towards Cape Richards where we explored the burnt out ruins of the resort and enjoyed Michelle's beach-made nori rolls for lunch on Orchid Beach. We then made the crossing to Goold Island where we enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the beach followed by dinner and Dave's deconstructed apple crumble for desert. Have I mentioned how good the meals were! lots of variety, very tasty and interesting.

Orchid Beach

We then headed North, leaving Hinchinbrook and Goold Island across open water to Wheeler Island which is part of the Family Island Group. Surrounded by Coral (which is slowly recovering from the cyclone) we once again enjoyed the sunset on the beach before our last dinner together.

The last day of the trip we paddled past Bedarra and Timana islands for lunch on Dunk Island, and then a short paddle back to South Mission Beach where we farewelled our new friends.

Enjoying the sunset on Wheeler Island

I thoroughly recommend this trip, the days were well planned with plenty of time to relax and explore the islands as we made our way each day to a different campsite This was a fantastic way to explore this stunning uninhabited island; our guides were not only great cooks and expert paddlers, they are also very knowledgeable and passionate about the island's geography and history as well as the plants and bird life.

Pictures by Robyn, Irena and Kaye Blacksand Beach camp

Kaye Watson