September 2025 Newsletter

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Spring brings fresh energy to the club, along with a reminder of how much we can achieve together. As we look ahead to the AGM in November—my final one as president—I feel grateful for the support, friendship, and dedication of our members.  From major events like the Maroochy River Paddle to the everyday efforts that keep the club running, it’s your contributions that make this community so strong.  I encourage everyone to stay involved, put your hand up where you can, and help shape the next exciting chapter of our club.

Paddle Queensland and Sunshine Coast Regional Council Sports Awards

We encourage members to put forward nominations for these prestigious awards.

Play It Forward $500 Bursaries

Financial assistance is available for juniors who would otherwise be unable to participate in sport. Applications close 14 September. More details: Sunshine Coast Sports Bursary.

Annual General Meeting

Our AGM will be held on Saturday 15 November at the clubhouse. Formal paperwork will be sent shortly.

We strongly encourage financial members to consider nominating for committee positions—particularly the role of Member Protection Information Officer, which will be vacant.

If formal roles aren’t for you, there are still many ways to contribute: joining the cleaning roster, helping with kayak maintenance, supporting the race committee, or assisting as Boat Storage Captain. Every contribution helps.

Maroochy River Paddle

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the safe and successful running of this year’s Maroochy River Paddle.

  • The course ran in reverse—from Eudlo Creek to Dunethin Rock—allowing paddlers to race with the tide.
  • Conditions were perfect, with three club safety boats on the water and 69 paddlers in 49 craft.
  • Some participants also camped overnight, adding to the community spirit.
  • While a date clash reduced dragon boat entries and Coast Guard support, the event still attracted a diverse field and plenty of positive feedback.
  • Special thanks to Caloundra Pacific Rotary for their delicious BBQ burgers.

This event continues to highlight the value of our club in the wider paddling community.

Strategic Plan

The club’s Strategic Plan is now complete and available in the clubhouse. Thank you to all members for their valuable input. This document will guide our short, medium, and long-term goals, helping us make paddling accessible to more people, more often.

Lease Renewal

The committee is currently working with Council on the renewal of our lease.

Spring Soirée

Join us for a relaxed social evening on Saturday 4 October from 5pm at the clubhouse. Please BYO drinks, chair, and a plate to share.

New Racks

A big thank you to Alan and Jennifer Rasmussen, long-time supporters of the Maroochy River Paddle through North Coast Foods. Though they have sold their business, they kindly donated storage racks from their shed to our club.
Thanks also to Tim for applying decking oil, and to the re-assembly team—Hud, Tim, Delia, and Beau—for their hard work.

Daisy Chain Lock on Double Gates

Please ensure the double gates are locked in a daisy chain style, allowing access for essential service providers (electricity, fire, pest control, etc.).

Notice Board Updates

  • AVCG IRB Sale – The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard has an inflatable rescue boat for sale. While the club can’t purchase it, members may be interested.
  • U-Crew App – A new app for renting, buying, and advertising events.
  • Falcon Kayaks – A new kayak company founded by Tom Messenger and his dad.
  • Sea Kayak Sale – Two quality sea kayaks with paddles available at a discounted price of $990 each.

Kind regards from your committee, Delia, Deb, Nicky, Tim, Paul, Oliver, Martin, Justin