Warrandyte Kayaking

Hey folks

Let's go for a paddle! We're going to run the first beginner kayaking trip of the year up on the Yarra. Most likely the Lower Homestead to Wittons Reserve loop, with the potential to extend to the lower section if we are making good time. This is a trip intended for those who have paddled a bit before and are ready for an introduction to whitewater.

The Loop section is 5km of Grade II whitewater, and the lower section is 12km of Grade II, with some potential for portaging (carrying the boats around fallen trees). The upper section will take about 2 hours if we work on skills, and the lower section could take up to 5 hours if we decide to undertake it. 

Depending on the availability of cars with roof racks, on the day of the trip, we may need to hire a car. This could potentially put the expected cost of the trip up from the cost of gear hire + fuel (usually around $20) to about $40. 

To come on this trip you will need to be able to:

1. comfortably swim at least 50 m,
2. have been to one of the pool sessions from earlier last year, or otherwise have demonstrated competency in self-rescue in the event of a capsize, and
3. be competent with basic paddle strokes and boat control on flatwater, with the ability to paddle for a few hours. 

I expect this trip to be very popular, so attendance at the Tuesday meeting at 7 pm sharp is essential. If you are on the waitlist, be sure to come along anyway in case a spot opens up!