Pick up a paddle

Kayaking at Causeway Lake.

KAYAKING is steadily growing in popularity in the region as a new club - Paddle Capricornia - has been formed to promote the sport on the Capricorn Coast.

Instigated at the Farnborough Store, Paddle Capricornia started with seven members and is quickly gaining numbers as it meets twice a week for a social paddle.

Plans are also in place for some longer expeditions to be held later in the year.

"Some of the members on board have a lot of experience," Paddle Capricornia treasurer Vicki Bambrick said.

"Tim Morris has been paddling for years and recently paddled around the Keppels and to Stanage Bay with friends."

Laurie Brayne, who is an experienced marathon paddler, has competed in the Hawkesbury Classic for the past 12 years and national ski paddle champion John Woods and wife Christine also bring their experience to the group.

Affiliated with Queensland Canoeing, which can provide avenues for competition, liability and insurance, Paddle Capricornia would like to get surf ski, fishing and sea kayaking events happening in the future.

Members will need their own kayak, surf ski or canoe to join and the club meets on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for a social paddle.

"We are on the water at 5.30am and are sticking in fairly close at this stage," Bambrick said.

"We don't have a junior program at the moment as we need a qualified instructor and program in place.

 "If anyone is qualified and would like to take it on, they can approach the club."

Paddle Capricornia meetings are held every second Thursday of the month at the Farnborough Store from 7pm.

FAST FACTS

What: Paddle Capricornia

Where: Access 6, Farnborough Beach, Tuesdays and Thursdays (on the water at 5.30am)

Also: Yeppoon Main Beach (near surf club), 3.30pm Saturdays

For more information contact Vicki Bambrick on 0437 101 871