New paddlers info

Paddling is a fun water sport

We are very happy to have you along for just a few tries at the sport or as a long term member. We have a range of levels of participation, from casual once a week paddlers right through to the committed paddlers training for races. We have people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds, please do not feel intimidated by the apparent physicality of the sport. If you have never picked up a paddle it might take you a while to get the hang of it but we will welcome you just the same as a veteran of the sport.

Your skipper/steerer will be thinking of your safety and also trying to make sure you have fun, exercise and enjoy yourself. Should you have concerns or you are worried about something please explain that to your skipper or the club coach before you get in a canoe. If you are a novice paddler you probably won’t go outside the harbour or if you do only in calm conditions. More experienced paddlers might head down the beach to Newcastle for a swim or across Stockton Bight.

Outrigger paddling is a pretty safe sport so far as water sports go and it’s accessible even for the not so fit or physically challenged. It’s unusual to see any serious injuries and any injuries tend to be strains or bruises or such that you see in any sport. The speed of the canoe rarely goes over 15km/hr, we don’t tend to paddle anywhere that is likely to be dangerous and your skipper will take you a distance and direction appropriate for the crews abilities.

Swimming in Newcastle harbor and beaches

If you are not a confident swimmer you may want to wear a life jacket. There are fish of all sizes in the sea but they tend to mind their own business. We are sometimes visited by the local seal, dolphins and flying fish but they’re all pretty harmless.
It is possible you will get wet, end up in the harbor or ocean in a capsize or just jump in for a swim.
Even if you don’t end up swimming if there is a bit of breeze and waves you will get splashed.
The water in Newcastle is usually quite mild at around 15 – 18 degrees C which is very refreshing in summer.

Essential information for new paddlers

  • To work out when you want to come paddling see, Where & When we paddle
  • What to wear when you come paddling, read this
  • Contact details for the club committee and coach, contact us
  • Introduce yourself to our club coach