Torquay Outriggers make big move to new Fishos home

THE state’s only open-ocean outrigger canoe club is looking ahead to 2025, completing its move into its new home at Torquay’s Fishermans Beach.

The Torquay Outrigger Canoe Club relocated to a new storage area in recent months, located next to the Torquay Sailing Club.

The move was made possible through the club’s partnership with Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, allowing the canoe club to maximise space at the newly upgraded carpark at Fishermans Beach following the area’s recent redevelopment.

“We thank the Outriggers for their flexibility as we worked with all the stakeholders to achieve this great result,” coastal reserves manager Caleb Hurrell said.

“We hope the club is settling in and making the most of their new home at Fishos.”

The new carpark at Fishos now features 24 new parking bays suitable for cars and trailers, improved pedestrian crossings, a shared pathway, and designated parking for boaters with limited mobility.

The project has upgraded the carpark to provide easier access for beachgoers, young families, wheelchair users, and people using mobility devices.

A DDA-compliant beach access ramp is also now in place.

“We have successfully moved our boats to our new home and the Torquay Outrigger Canoe Club want to thank the GORCAPA team for all their hard work to get us here,” club member Meredith De Leenheer said.

“It’s great to be back in Torquay and paddling on the ocean and our storage site is wonderfully spacious and peaceful.”

The Torquay Outrigger Canoe Club is hopeful the move will allow the sport to continue growing locally.

For more information about joining the Torquay Outrigger Canoe Club, head to the club’s Facebook page.