Torquay hosts paddle out protest Saturday

A peaceful community protest will take place at Torquay Front Beach this Saturday 31 January, where ocean advocates will paddle out in opposition to offshore gas development in the Southern Ocean.

The Community Paddle Out for the Southern Ocean begins at 10am at the Esplanade end of Price Street. The event is coordinated by Surfrider Foundation Australia and is open to all ages and abilities.

Participants are encouraged to bring a surfboard, paddleboard, kayak or bodyboard and form a floating circle in the water. The paddle out aims to raise awareness of growing concern around offshore gas exploration, including proposals targeting the Otway Basin off Victoria’s coast.

Environmental groups and local communities have raised alarms over the potential impact of industrialisation in the region, citing risks to marine life, pollution, and disruption of vital ecosystems. The paddle out event is part of a broader campaign to protect Australia’s southern seas and maintain healthy ocean environments for future generations.

The format follows a long tradition of ocean-based protests that use community presence on the water as a powerful visual statement of unity and environmental concern. Past paddle outs have attracted large turnouts from the Surf Coast and neighbouring regions.

Anyone wishing to take part can attend by foot or on water, and no registration is required. Attendees are advised to arrive early to allow time for parking and preparation. The event will proceed in most weather conditions unless deemed unsafe.

More information is available at surfrider.org.au.