Touring/Sea kayak leader training

Hey everyone!

You may have heard some whisperings of a new prospective sport in the club, and I am thrilled to announce that we have spent this lockdown busily working behind the scenes to introduce touring and sea kayaking to MUMC!

We are looking to expand our fleet with some brand new single and tandem sea kayaks and we will be recruiting aspiring activity leaders who are keen to help get the activity established in the club by running single and multi-day paddling trips exploring Victoria's calmer rivers, lakes and enclosed seas!

I’m seeking expressions of interest from those who wish to be involved. We aim to give five to eight members the opportunity to attend two externally run courses – one to learn how to plan and run flatwater trips (on inland waterways such as slow-moving rivers and lakes) and one to learn enclosed sea skills (think Wilsons Prom or Port Philip Bay).

Prerequisites: Some previous kayaking experience will be required, as well as enthusiasm for organising and getting out on trips to explore our beautiful waterways. As with all club activities, all leaders are also required to hold a valid first aid certificate (or be willing to acquire one). Preference will be given to members with some demonstrable prior participation in club activities.

Costs: Both courses will be heavily subsidised by MUS, although participants will be asked to contribute a small amount (TBC) towards the course fee. Course value is $375 for the flatwater guide course and $475 for the enclosed sea skills course.

Time commitment: The training will consist of a two-day flatwater guide course, followed by a two-day enclosed sea skills course, both accredited by Paddle Australia. Info about the courses can be found here and here. In return for receiving the training subsidy, you will also be expected to contribute back to the club by running flatwater/touring/enclosed sea kayaking trips and helping with some in-house training of new members and aspiring leaders.

Dates: To be confirmed, depending on restrictions. Please note that training may be held mid-week due to training provider availability, although we will try to organise days that suit as many as possible of those who are selected.

The process: If you are interested, add your name to this list and answer the questions provided. Once we have an idea of interest and how many we can provide funding for, I will send out an email and invite you to submit a brief application (https://www.mumc.org.au/training), which we will use to make a selection.

Please get in touch with me on if any questions!

Cheers, 

Anita