Kayaking  with the Rainbow Paddlers

You don't have to be an experienced paddler to come out with the Rainbow Paddlers. Many of us are fairly new to the sport. You can come paddling with us if you're interested in kayaking or canoeing and either own or can hire or borrow a craft and associated equipment. You can be any age, so long as you're of average adult fitness (not a high level).

Paddling is fun! We want to encourage gay, lesbian and transgender people to give this sport a try, to get together socially in a variety of locations in south east Queensland and northern NSW.

We have no fees or charges, other than asking you to help pay transport costs if you are car pooling. We do encourage you to take out membership of Team Brisbane.

There is no formal membership or membership dues and no formal office bearers within the Rainbow Paddlers. The coordinator (David - see below) is, however, developing a contact list of interested people, including email addresses and telephone numbers. So if you are interested in paddling and want to be informed of upcoming events - or suggest them! - please contact David.

You need a kayak or canoe or surf ski or sit-on kayak

AND

a paddle, personal flotation device, sprayskirt, whistle, suitable rubber footwear (kayaking boots or sandals).

The Rainbow Paddlers do not have equipment for hire. We are assembling information on rental services in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast and some of us may be able to advise you on buying your own craft, either new or second hand.

Rivers, lakes and estuaries are the obvious places, and for more adventurous and experienced sea-kayakers, parts of Moreton Bay. Some places include the Brisbane River within the city, the upper Brisbane River (below Wivenhoe Dam), Shorncliffe (Cabbage Tree Creek and Nundah Creek), Bribie Island (Pumicestone Passage side), Caloundra (Golden Beach), Currumbin Creek, Tallebudgera Creek, the Broadwater at Southport, Labrador to the southern end of Stradbroke Island, and Lake Cootharaba (north of Tewantin).

Trip destinations will reflect not just the coordinator's whims but YOUR ideas. Please suggest outings and if possible, be prepared to plan and organize outings.

Safety and good planning are essential to all Rainbow Paddlers events. While all paddlers must take responsibility for their own safety, everyone should wear a PFD (personal flotation device - life vest), carry a whistle in case of distress, carry sufficient water and food for the duration of the paddle, take sun screens, hat and sunglasses.

Ideally the group should also carry safety equipment including tow lines and a first aid kit, have predetermined emergency evacuation plans, and know the location of nearest rescue services.

Last Updated 07/03/2009