Just keep paddling: Great Ocean Paddle returns to coast

VICTORIA’S premier ocean paddling marathon is getting ready to launch again from Point Roadknight as ski paddlers of all kinds ready themselves for the full beauty of the Surf Coast.

The 20km Great Ocean Paddle, to be held on February 5, has been a marquee event on the Surf Coast for nearly two decades, featuring up to 100 kayakers each year, according to event organiser and business owner of Peak Adventure, Jarad Kohlar.

“The paddle is for anyone that is after a challenge, while being in a safe environment,” Mr Kohlar said.

“We have Torquay Marine Rescue coming on to provide water safety for the event, so it’s all done in-house, and we continue to promote that message for people to get out on the water and take on our paddle.

“This is definitely a leading event in the paddle community and there is always a sense of excitement that comes along with it each year.”

Paddlers will begin the route from Anglesea’s Motor Yacht Club at Point Roadknight, before navigating the surf breaks at Point Addis, Bells Breach, Winkipop and Torquay Surf Beach experiencing one of the world’s most spectacular downwind paddle races in the process.

The paddlers then conclude the 20km trip at Fisherman’s Beach once they go around Point Danger.

Peak Adventure will also offer a 5km adventure paddle at Fisherman’s Beach the day before as part of the Peak Adventure weekend paddle festival.

“It’s at the core of the event that it is a celebration of ocean paddling, and we’re proud to see the paddle community growing,” Mr Kohlar said.

“There was at one stage a two-year wait for paddling equipment a couple of years ago, so the re-emergence at the recreational level has been amazing to see from our perspective, showcasing both the paddle community and also the Surf Coast.”

World Marathon Championships athlete Casey Haynes, The Impossible Paddle quickest time-getter Tim Altman and organiser Peter Currie are just some of the ultra-athletes expected to take part.

Nordic Kayak will again retain the naming rights to the Great Ocean Paddle.

Registration and demo day will take place at Fisherman’s Beach on the Saturday February 5), before the main race commences in Anglesea the following day.

To register your spot in this year’s paddle, head to peakadventure.com.au