LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER W HAT’S NEW AT Blade? The answer is a lot - and a lot of the same, a lot of new.

‘A lot of new’ means a shift in focus, and ‘a lot of the same’ means sticking to the formula of being the one to deliver the best stories, information, and imagery when it comes to paddling in Australia.

The biggest change, however, is that we will only produce a limited print edition for home and retailer delivery.

The reason we are doing this, we’re making aggressive moves to become a more relevant digital-first title. Though it’s easy to throw around a term like ‘digital-first,’ ask yourself one important question: How are you reading this story right now?

If it’s on a phone, you are probably digesting content a lot like I do.

For better or worse, smartphones and social media have woven their time into the fabric of our lives. BLADE’s audience has changed accordingly. For every six viewers of BLADE content across our channels, there is only a single print viewer.

This does not mean we are abandoning print. It means that because our audience now is so large and so vastly skewed toward digital, we are scaling print back accordingly. If there’s continued interest from our advertisers and readers in print, we’ll continue to produce a single annual that we hope will reside on your coffee table from January through the summer paddling season.

I look forward to seeing you out on the water.

~ CHARLES WERB

2018 / 2019 EDITION 3 If there isn’t a photo then it didn’t happen!

Don’t be caught without a camera on your next paddle, otherwise a moment like this will forever be a tall story!

For great advice on the best photography gear to compliment your adventure style head into your local Camera House store.

camerahouse.com.au 4 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 5 THIS EDITION

10 COVER STORY: SUP NATIONAL TITLES Editor Shane Downey went along to the SUP National Titles to check out all the action from some of our favourite paddlers!

14 SEA & COASTAL PADDLE Coastal areas and the deep blue sea are an infinite playground for all types of paddle sports, no matter what type of paddling you’re into. We head to the Solomons for a world record adventure like no other.

24 RIVER & ESTUARY PADDLE

If you’re less experienced, or you just truly want to get back to nature, river and estuary paddling is ideal with many options available. Sweden is one destination where rivers meet ocean in a paddle adventure.

32 SURF PADDLE

Surf breaks can be the difference between a good day on the water, and a great day on the water. Try it out. for yourself. Lincoln Dews is a hero of the surf, so we sat down for a chat.

40 RACE PADDLE

Taking paddling to the next level, on of the most exciting things about paddle sport competitions is the mateship. We find out more about it from champion Michele Eray.

50 KAYAK FISHING Fishing is a massive sport in Australia and when you can mix that in with a kayak or other paddleboard, why wouldn’t you? Matt Hayden gives us his tips for bagging the Barra!

60 PADDLE CAMPING & ADVENTURE TRAVEL If you love to paddle, no doubt you love adventure and there are some great places to go to explore the local waterways.

6 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE Get an Extra 10% OFF our Inflatable SUP Packages with Code EDGE10

All our inflatable packages include paddleboard, Enter this code adjustable paddle, board bag, at sups.com.au leash, fins, pump, repair kit and instruction manual. at checkout

Free delivery Nationwide. Website: sups.com.au Phone: 1300 367 135 COVER STORY Hitting the waves for the titLe

2018 Hyundai Australian SUP Titles By Shane Downey

surfer Terrene Black, Queenslander Ke’ale Dorries, and Harry Maskell was crowned Australian Champion in the Western Australian Susannah Wilson, moving her to the Open Men’s SUP Surfing division, scoring an almost perfect Semi-Finals. wave at 9.9 out of 10. Combined with an earlier 9.5 in the last heat of the day for a heat total he finished with a total The Open Men’s division was a fantastic battle featuring of 19.15 out of a possible 20.00. It was the highest score 2017 runner-up Harry Maskell from New South Wales. of the event and took the win like the pro he is. He powered through the heat, scoring a 16.25, one of the highest heat totals of the day. He defeated Dylan Henry Shakira Westdorp claimed her 7th Australian SUP Surfing (NSW), Crawford Olney (WA) and Sam Sierakowski (VIC) title in the open women’s division, after scoring 16.25. to make his way to the semis, along with Justin Holland Westdorp defeated Hannah Finlay-Jones (NSW), Skyla (NSW), Matt Takle (VIC), James Casey (NSW), Riley Kay Rayner (NSW) and Terrene Black (NSW) in what was a very (SA) and Joshua Stretton (NSW). exciting final heat.

Queenslander Steve Morley scored the highest heat total Steve Morley was crowned Australian Champion for the of the Over 40 Men’s division, with a 15.00, beating Blair first time in the over 40 men’s division, after winning the N A PICTURE-PERFECT Gold Coast Presented by SAE Group, day one of the 2018 Hyundai Moore (NSW), Paul Jones (QLD) and Gareth Grant (NSW). final, scoring a 16.25. He defeated Justin Holland (NSW), Australian SUP Titles saw round one of the Stand Up Paul Jones (QLD) and Trafford Harris (WA). weekend in November, Australia’s best Paddle Board surfing divisions hit the water at Duranbah DAY TWO saw more heat and final action at Duranbah O Beach. with three-foot swell, where the Junior Men’s Australian Narelle Kuppers from Western Australia took out the stand up paddle board athletes gathered to SUP Surfing championship crown was taken out by Josh over 40 women’s division with a mighty roar from her DAY ONE saw clean, two-foot swell across the day, and Stretton from New South Wales, defeating Riley Thomson WA teammates, defeating Meleah Zanos (VIC), Patrice battle for the Australian SUP Titles. The line-up although the swell was small, the action was worth every (QLD), Aidan Feeley (QLD) and Louie Pantelic (NSW). Richardson (WA) and Dimity Faulkner (QLD). spectator’s time. Open Men’s division, Open Women’s This was the first time a junior division was added to the of competitors was huge, with the best in the division, Over 40 and Over 50 Men’s and Women’s heats Australian SUP Titles, which made Stretton’s victory so Adam Robinson from New South Wales was crowned took place, as did the Junior Men’s. much sweeter. over 50 men’s division Australian champion after his win country set to compete for the crowns in Stand against Glen Cochran (NSW), Mark Temple (SA) and Chris Current International Surfing Association Women’s SUP Duranbah beach was again the host for the finals for the Twomey (WA). Up Paddle Board Surfing, Technical Racing and Surfing World Champion Shakira Westdorp from Tugun, surfing event on DAY THREE, which saw clean one metre in Queensland smashed through her first-round heat waves rolling in for competitors. The juniors saw some of the best swell of the day when Marathon Racing.’ with a total of 13.45. She defeated New South Wave SUP it came to their turn, and Brea Wright from Queensland

10 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 11 SUP NATIONAL TITLES

Peter Dorries took out first place in the over 50 open division ahead of Crawford Olney, Gordon Stimson, and Paul Mackie, and Queenslander Paul Jones took first place in the over 40 open men’s division, ahead of Troy Pease, Chad Islip, and Evan Green.

Melissa Cedelland from New South Wales took out first place in the over 40 women’s division ahead of Lisa Cross, Vanessa Smith, and Christiana Chessa.

Sam McCullough finished first in the Junior Men’s division ahead of Clayton Kane, with the Junior Women’s division won by Abbie Walkerdene.

DAY FOUR saw Michael Booth take out the win in the Australian SUP Titles marathon, claiming yet another national title. Although the regular route taken for the marathon race between Rainbow Bay and Currumbin is typically a downwind run, it certainly was not so on day was crowned Australian Champion after winning two four. In what was a mostly flat race, ‘Flat Matt’ Nottage aggregate finals in a row. Wright defeated Isabella Olney finished solidly as runner-up, with current Australian team (WA) and Sophie May-White (VIC). rep Lincoln Dews coming third in the 17-kilometre course.

James Casey from New South Wales took out the win in In a final sprint, Kelly Margetts out-powered Beau O’Brian the Open Men’s Technical Racing division in a nail-biter and James Casey to claim fourth place on the podium. In of a race. With the wind picking up and building waves, the over 40’s, Queenslander Paul Jones took out the crown competitors battled to get past the break at D’bah. Most ahead of Team Australia manager Troy Pease. of the race was a fierce battle between current world champion Michael Booth from Western Australia and In the women’s marathon, Angie Jackson beat Karla Gilbert Pacific Paddle Games world title holder Lincoln Dews in the closing stages by just 22 seconds to take the win from Queensland. They raced neck and neck right to the in a time of 1:51:11. final lap when James Casey managed to catch a fantastic wave through the pack and cross the finish line first to And on DAY FIVE, Lincoln Dews took out the Men’s beach take out the win. race ahead of James Casey and Michael Booth to secure a spot-on Team Australia for the fifth time in six years, Surf Life Saving legend Karla Gilbert from Queensland took and. Karla Gilbert used her surf lifesaving skills to take out out the open women’s division of the technical race, with Terrene Black for the win in the women’s event. an incredible time of 23.48 minutes, coming across the finish line a minute ahead of the rest of the field. Terrene Following on from the National Titles held on the Gold Black came in second, followed by Susan Wilson (WA) and Coast, Team Australia took out their sixth Gold Medal in Ke’ale Dorries (QLD). seven years at the 2018 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship in Wanning, China in December.

12 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 13 A day spent on the water is never a waste of time.

The ocean is a continuously changing space for you to paddle. It can be brutal, and it can be eerily calm, and it can switch between the two in an instant. When you are heading out into the ocean you need to be aware of safety first, you need to know how to get out of sticky situations, and you need to be contactable, whether by SatPhone or GPS beacon.

That being said, the ocean is a lot of fun to paddle. Here are some of the best tips you can get before heading out in the deep blue sea for the first time. No matter the type of craft you use, there are certain aspects of paddling that are essential for ocean travel.

Safety First Heading into the surf head on

ALWAYS carry safety equipment recommended for Never stand with your watercraft between you and an where you are paddling. oncoming wave.

ALWAYS wear a life jacket. Make sure it is comfortable, Hold the nose of your craft above the incoming waves. bright, and allows movement. While standing in the shallows, do not let the waves inundate the nose of your craft. Stay close enough to shore that you can swim if your watercraft sink for some reason. Steer clear of high winds The perfect moment to head into the waves is precisely and heavy surf if you aren’t conditioned to it. after a wave has passed. Take note of the time between each wave and the formation of the next. NEVER paddle in shipping lanes. There will typically be a short pause between each wave Consider your water and air temperatures before that is the best opportunity to hop onto/into your craft paddling out. Weather on the water can change pretty and start paddling. You want to do this before the next quickly, and if you are paddling in winter, hypothermia wave reaches you. is a risk. To get through the wave, you must thrust through it. You Be comfortable with capsizing - it’s vitally important can thrust through the wave by increasing your stroke rate to know how to wet exit your craft and rectify it from and not losing momentum. When a wave hits, DO NOT deep water. Practice many times in calm water before stop paddling. Forward momentum is crucial. hitting the ocean. Waves can look a bit daunting to all paddlers. Any Understand stroking techniques and learn to use your hesitation will place you back on the shore quicker than torso properly. In the ocean, correct paddle techniques you can blink. can save your life. The sea is not a beginner’s environment. You need to be confident, a strong swimmer and an even Don’t get stuck in the impact zone. stronger paddler to attempt ocean paddling. Heading back into shore requires patience, a quick burst Know your area – tides can change the shoreline of speed, and self-control. Every craft is different, and you dramatically. If you are in unfamiliar territory, speak to need to practice a lot to find your craft’s sweet spot. Surf locals about the best spots to go. skis differ very much from kayaks, SUP and Prone.

Be very aware of currents in the area you are paddling. Knowing your watercraft and the waves are just the Know what they are doing and keep an eye on where beginning. you are, especially in tidal areas.

Rips can affect your paddling as much as it can when swimming, so keep an eye out. 14 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 15 FEATURE SOLOMON ISLANDS PADDLE NGGELA SULE ISLAND

by Charles Werb & Rory Mills

I am in a very fortunate position that as the Publisher of Blade & OE Mag, I am now experiencing the Lesson One. If a local says keep left, they mean keep left, exploration paddle of Roderick Bay and snorkelling around opportunity to venture into some of they really know what they mean. If you don’t follow this the World Discoverer. That evening, we were surprised We were met by SIVB marketing officer Stella Lucas on instruction then expect that you might be taking a detour… when Patricks kids and his brothers kids entertained us the most incredible destinations our arrival and taken to the Heritage Park Hotel. A couple as we did. with a cultural dance and storytelling. Truly inspiring. of hours later all of our gear was delivered to the hotel, planet has to offer. SUP’s, Outriggers and 4 bags of gear!! After paddling up the coast, into a headwind the decision By now, and after talking to the locals we had a better was made that we would not reach Nugu before nightfall understanding of the winds and currents and decided to Saturday morning it was off the wharf to be met by Bob so we decided to head straight the Roderick Bay Beach head off the next morning at 5am to put in another big from Raiders Hotel Tulagi and transferred with all our Accommodation run by Patrick and his family. day on the water and get to the village of Mborohinamba. At the end of 2016, I hit “The Hapi gear across Iron Bottom Sound to RAIDERS HOTEL on their 9.2 metre Aluminium dive and transfer boat the MV It is not easy to miss as the three huts used for Tuesday. Leaving Roderick Bay at 5am we paddled for 4 Islands” , which most of you know COBRA. This is one of two boats Bob and Yvie run out accommodation are right next to the World Discoverer and ½ hours, around Tanuli Point to the Village of Vura of RAIDERS, catering to transfers and dives around their that hit a coral reef and ran aground on Patricks beach stopping half way to cook breakfast and rehydrate. It as the Solomon Islands. The reason: region. in 2000. was truly amazing to be in such a vibrant environment with dolphins, Tuna feeding on the surface and a whale to do an adventure paddle around Bob Norton – Owner/Managing Director of Raiders Hotel Totally exhausted we were helped with all our gear up broaching about 5 kilometres off shore. & Dive was to be our GO TO GUY on this expedition. onto the beach, provided with our accommodation for Nggela Sule Island in Central His intimate knowledge of the Island, its customs and the night, along with a shower and toilet. It did not take weather was to prove invaluable. At the same time the long for us to offload our gear, have a shower, and then province. Rory Mills and I decided hospitality and food provided by RAIDERS is sensational. be taken off to the common area for a meal… WOW fresh If you are ever in the Solomon Islands make sure you vegetables, mineral water and Tuna. he would complete the paddle on an stop here on your way to or from Honiara. The rest of Saturday was spent packing, repacking and then packing No sooner was this meal consumed then it was off to sleep Imagine inflatable SUP and I would again all of our gear and ensuring that the outrigger was as our bodies really needed it. made seaworthy. This meant the use of lots of silicone paddle my Outrigger carrying our and duct tape… Monday we decided that we would take the opportunity to spend the day with Patrick, visiting the area where he supplies but staying with villages on Sunday morning was an early start with breakfast and a and his family live. What an eye opener. Firstly to see 6.30 departure from RAIDERS. The day’s objective was to how they provide for their own fruit and vegetables as our stop overs. No GPS, compass and paddle up the West Coast of the Island from Tulagi to the well as schooling and community set up gave me an village of Nugu a distance of 17 nautical mile using the understanding of life on the Islands. maps only. prevailing wind and current. Lunch was fresh caught fish with vegetables, followed by an

16 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 17 SEA & COASTAL FEATURE

So seeing as that the information we had a about the movement of water down the passage was incorrect and that the tidal change was only happening at 1pm we rigged a line to the SUP and I hauled us back to the village of Mboromole.

The villages were sensational. Not only did we buy a paddle but watermelon, fresh water and a deck to rest were provided as well. Solomon Is. Timeless

We left Vura to round Tanamboli Island which stands as a sentry between Anuha Island and Nggela Island. As we turned we were smashed by 15-20 knot winds and wind swell. This really took its toll on us and we arrived at the village of Mborohinamba two and ½ hours later, averaging just four nautical miles in that time.

Pulling up on the beach we were met by an enthusiastic crowd of onlookers. We needed to find the village head and arrange for somewhere for us to camp for the night as well as replenish our water and bodies… Here is where Rory’s single minded drive and ability to The local priest Father John would have no word of this overcome obstacles came to the fore. and insisted we spend the night in his partially completed hut. The opportunity to chat with Father John and his Rory paddled another seven Nautical miles down the nephew gave me an insight into how remote they are and channel on his knees, into the wind, with very little cut off from the troubles of the Western World. assistance from the tide.

After replenishing our bodies with water, supplements and We reached Cockatoo point and stopped for a breather… Back country meals it was time to sleep as the next day was well what happened next ended up taking my breath away going to be huge. We planned to leave Mborohinamba as whilst we were resting on the side of the Mangroves and head straight for the Mboli passge and catch the tide there was some serious movement in the bushes. Rory change to carry us all the way back to RAIDERS. mentioned the words THAT COULD BE A SALTY, and I took offand jumped straight into the Outrigger… No crocodile Wednesday. We left at 5.30am and had a easy paddle all hunter here. the way, turning right into the passage.

Feeling strong we decided to keep going without a stop and see if we could reach the village of Taroniara by lunchtime and a 5 nautical mile paddle across to RAIDERS with the forecast prevailing SW wind. A total distance of 15 nautical mile.

Believe it or not, two nautical miles down the passage the blade fell off the shaft of the SUP. Well what do we do now? We did not have a spare but knowing that the villages all use dugouts this would be an easy fix and another opportunity to visit a village on our way. We realised that to cross the bay in the wind and prevailing swell, as well as the forecast for the next day was going to be difficult and risky as well. The decision was made to power up the iPhone and make the call to Bob to come and fetch us and take us back.

Getting uplifted and having a cold SOL thrust into our RUSH HOUR hands along with the words “Wow we are impressed with what you have done” coming from Bon, I then realised that Rory had just completed over 70 kilometres on an visitsolomons.com.sb inflatable SUP. What an unbelievable effort.

18 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 19

Untitled-1 1 17/07/2018 02:03:51 PM HOW TO BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER Benefits Of Personal Cooling Products

Summer heat is harsh on our bodies, and although there water per 25 kilograms of body weight, per day. This is a are many ways to try and keep cool, it is not always as safe and practical amount when you are active in low to simple as jumping into your backyard pool or taking some mid-range activities. You should always drink more water ice from the freezer. When you have an active lifestyle, and when you sweat to replace the water your body sweats you spend a lot of time outdoors, away from home and out. This is simple. Marathon athletes drink on average enjoying life in general, you need to be aware of how the around 800 millilitres an hour during the performance: heat can affect you, and how to keep yourself cool in as the critical thing to take from this, it’s that you need to ADVERTORIAL many ways as possible. drink water according to your activity schedule. Higher activity means higher water intake, and don’t forget to add How Does Excessive Heat Affect The Body? electrolytes to the mix as well. Your body also sweats out essential electrolytes which need to be replaced. When your body is active, it creates more heat than it needs and needs to release it somehow. The harder your Keep Excessive Sweat Controlled body works, the more your body must get rid of the heat. High humidity and hot weather in summer slow the heat For many people, sweating is an issue, and those who are transfer from your body to the air around you. When severely affected can dread the thought of summer for your body produces heat that increases your internal this reason. However, there are many ways that you can temperature, your heart rate rises, and your blood vessels keep the sweat at bay. Apply antiperspirants at night, so enlarge to draw more blood to the outer layers of skin, they have more time to work. Wear breathable clothing where the heat needs to be released. materials. If you are an excessive sweater, remove these materials from your summer clothing range: Viscose/ If your natural heat is not released quick enough, or the Rayon, Silk, Polyester/Polyester Blend, and Nylon. Another surrounding air is warmer than your body, your sweat way to avoid excess sweat is to use products like The glands kick into action. Your sweat glands draw water from Chilly Pashmina Towel Wrap. These products use active the bloodstream to make sweat that transports the heat cooling technology to instantly cool your body when the through your pores and onto the skin, to release the heat. towel gets wet with water or sweat, wrung out and waved in the air. When your body works harder to release the heat, more blood travels toward your body surface for cooling, Know Your Body’s Cooling Points making less available to serve your brain, muscles, and other internal organs. This is where problems often begin. This is one of the most important ways you can keep You can see how the more your body works to fight the cool, and in this case, a little bit of knowledge goes a heat, the less blood it has to run the rest of your body. long way. Knowing the parts of your body that cause your Here are some great tips from Cooling Products to beat entire body to become cool is a science that will help you the heat this summer. immensely this summer. This knowledge backed with the technology of personal cooling products will have you Drink More Water breezing through this next summer, even when you are paddling long distances. Your cooling points include your The most vital way to cool and protect your body against neck and your wrists, the insides of your elbows and knees, heat in summer is, of course, to drink more water. But, the tops of your feet and insides of your ankle, on your how much water should you drink? There are many ways temples, and your inner thighs. to work this out. However, your water intake also relies on varying factors including the types of activity you are They are the pulse points of your body, where the blood partaking in, your height and weight and a range of other vessels run closest to the skin. Cool your blood, and you things. There is regular water intake, and there is high cool your body. Using personal cooling products like cool activity water intake. arms will cool your wrist and elbow pulse points, cool headwear can cool multiple locations at once, including On average, an adult should drink around one litre of your neck and temples.

20 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 21 CR0CODILES & ICE AN EXCERPT I blinked in disbelief and asked Boomer, “Did the entire ocean of ice just now jostle free and begin to flow? This second? Or had we been so unobservant five minutes before that we hadn’t noticed this massive and critical change in our world?”

Boomer didn’t answer. He just stared out to sea, hands uncharacteristically hanging loosely by his side, useless appendages that they now appeared to be.

Tipping points occur because systems, of all sizes and compositions, usually don’t change in a linear manner with perturbation. They are so common in everyday life that we have popular sayings to describe this concept: “the straw that breaks the camel’s back”, “pushed to the edge”, “the match in the powder barrel”. around as independently moving pieces. Thus, the slow, steady, ever-changing march of the seasons, the The atomic foundations of life, itself, were created in the inexorable rise of the sun’s angle and the month-long fiery explosions of stellar tipping points. Our sun has above freezing temperatures, had combined to suddenly been around for 5 billion years or so, shining brightly, set an ocean of ice into motion. and more or less constantly, in the heavens. Look up into the night sky and you see billions and billions of other Right here, watching the ice move, I felt that I was in stars all glowing away, seemingly unchanging—forever. the planetary clockworks, holding on to the big second hand and flying around in great arcs, legs spun out But inside each star, from the smallest to the largest, by centrifugal force, gears spinning behind me. The atomic fusion reactions are changing its composition, clockworks of a planet. The ice had become an emotion. day by day, minute by minute, and nanosecond by My own frailty had become an obvious and glorious nanosecond. When the tipping point is reached in a emotion. This is what the Spirit Wolf was trying to explain, massive star, the entire core—ten times as massive as our which we now call Deep Ecology—a fundamental, innate sun—can collapse within the incredibly short time span empathy for the “living environment as a whole,” and a of one second. And then the star explodes. Inside this tactile appreciation for the interconnectivity of nature. The following excerpt is taken from Crocodiles To experience this. It would be nice, in a way, if you didn’t cosmic cataclysm, small elements fuse into larger ones, and Ice: A Journey Into Deep Wild, by Jon Turk kill us.” creating the nuclear crucible for life. You don’t have to go to the Arctic to see and feel the and published by Oolichan Press. As the narrative Earth’s changing moods. Changes in the seasons, unfolds, Erik Boomer and I are circumnavigating We paddled until our open water lead closed out, and Boomer and I were witnessing the breakup of the arctic at any latitude or in any ecosystem, occur in abrupt Ellesmere Island in the Canadian Arctic. It is now then dragged the boats onto shore to decide what to icepack, a tipping point that is huge on a human scale fits and starts, less dramatic than the breakup inthe mid-summer and, about half way through the do next. And then, as if someone clicked off the pause but smaller than an exploding star. The Arctic is like that. Arctic icepack—to be sure—but real and observable journey, we are rounding the northeast corner of button on a cosmic video, the entire icepack began to The World is like that. Temperatures had been above nevertheless. I believe that the first step in reining in our the Island. www.jonturk.net move. freezing for a month, yet the sea ice was still two meters headlong rush toward human induced climate change is thick, unmoving and inscrutable. Half an hour ago, we to watch spring unfold and realize how quickly the Earth On the map, Cape Sheridan is a tiny, almost imperceptible This frozen ocean, that we had walked over and had marveled at how jumbled the ice was, but it was still systems can change. dimple on a smoothly curving coastline, barely worthy of camped on, that had been our own private continent stationary. a name—a pile of windblown rock, battered by ice and for two months, stable and secure underfoot, had now, Once we internalize local weather and seasonal change, wind. Yet, as we turned our course a few compass degrees in this instant, morphed into a dynamic maelstrom Even now, the ice hadn’t melted—it was still out there. as an emotion, once we love it, as family, then perhaps we from southeast to a little more southerly, in what seemed of independent chunks that were moving: mushing, But within an incredibly short time of five minutes or can grasp the less visible changes in our larger systems. like barely more than an eye-blink, after 60 days, and grinding, smashing and smearing together. so, the little fractures and cracks that had been slowly And then, maybe—hopefully—we will be motivated 800 miles, I looked out into the Strait and saw a ragged developing for all this time, suddenly interconnected to implement the concrete political, economic, and jumble of ice that was more rubbly than anything we’d We stopped and listened to the whooshing, cracking, to the point where the pack ice broke free under the technological initiatives do something about it. Even if it ever seen—too rubbly to even consider dragging our and tinkling that sounded like rumbling thunder influence of underlying currents, and began to float means reining in our opulence a little bit. boats across, as there were no level surfaces anywhere. choreographed with breaking wine glasses and melodious lullabies. This was the Nares Strait, which Tyler and I had Boomer and I looked up, and our whole world had It was beauty and fear wrapped together into glistening feared over laptops and lattes in Hood River Oregon on changed into something we had never experienced silent whiteness, like a deadly horizontal avalanche that bright, warm, lazy summer day seemingly so many before. That’s why we were here. To feel this change frozen into immobility. As a scientist, I could explain how eons ago. within the marrow of our bones. The Spirit Wolf had the ice was crammed into this place by a global current, assured us that we would become vulnerable, that we driven by temperature and salinity differences and the This was the icepack that had crushed the stout oaken wouldn’t be in control of the situation. spin of the earth. But the feeling was one of instant ships of the western navies during the great Age of smallness, as if I were now the mouse, squeaking pitifully Discovery. But that was the glory of it all, because the difference into the inscrutable Arctic vastness, as if it could listen It almost made me seasick, as if an earthquake had between success and failure, between life and death, was and had consciousness, “I’ve done my best, all that I can occurred and solid rock was undulating in a wave, as if how well we would adapt to this marvelously intricate, do. Mentally and physically. I’m just a little human after reality itself, which had been solid and predictable for so incomprehensibly powerful, chaotic infinity of moving all. I am honored to be here. long, was now, suddenly, in chaos. ice. We pulled to shore. Right now it would be suicidal to venture another millimeter toward our goal. 22 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 23 Listen... The River Is Calling River paddling can be a very difficult thing to master. There are many aspects of river paddling, from the calm simple to paddle areas, the extreme white-water areas that the pros love to dominate. No matter what type of watercraft you paddle with, there are things you need to know about river paddling, from things that can make it safer, to the things you should not do on the river for safety sake.

River paddling is one of the most methodological forms of paddling, and specifically for paddle boarding there are many mistakes that novices, and sometimes the most experienced paddle boarders make. Here are some of the biggest mistakes to avoid when attempting river paddling. Check it out:

Correct Leash Attachments Protective Gear

If you are on SUP on a river heading down fast flow, you It should go without saying that if you are putting yourself should never attach your leg rope or leash to your ankle. into a high-risk environment, that you should wear proper In calmer waters, this is fine, but in faster flows, you protection to save yourself injury. SUP on the river can be should use a properly inspected rescue belt attachment, quite rough, and you should go to the extent of wearing using a partial overlap technique. knee pads, shin guards, and ALWAYS wear a PFD, no questions asked. Gloves are also a good idea to stop How does it work? Instead of attaching the leash Velcro blisters or cut hands if you fall into shallow waters onto with numerous overlaps you simply partially overlap rocks. the Velcro so that it can easily break free under load. This method ensures the leash can easily release from Learn Before You Go the board. In the case of you becoming unconscious, or being tangled up in the leash, or injured, the leash Get someone who knows how to paddle in river rapids to will release from the waist belt, reducing the risks of teach you properly before you go. Don’t go into it as an drowning. amateur. Even if you have kayaked rapids before, you need to know the proper approach on a SUP. The two handle Staggered Stance very differently in similar situations.

When paddling with heavy flow, it’s important to have Board Positioning the right stance. Most rookies will paddle with a side-by- side stance, and in calmer waters, this is fine. However, Don’t stand too far back on your board. Standing too far when you are paddling in heavy currents, a staggered back will lessen your stability. Stand in the middle of the stance will make your balance far better. Your stance board and let the nose rocker do what it is supposed to do. should not be a traditional surfing stance (both feet in the stringer line of the board) but slightly offset. Your Don’t Fight The Current feet should be set to your preferred stance (natural or goofy) to allow for maximum manoeuvrability and The current is your friend, so do not under any stability. circumstances try to fight it. Fighting the current will drain your energy. The current will take you on one route, if Footwear you fight it, you will lose the battle quickly.

Footwear is vital when paddling in strong currents. Bare Proper Fins feet in river rapids is one of the best ways around to cut the hell out of your feet. Astral Hiyaks are probably Use smaller fins for river riding. Bigger fins catch subsurface the best boot for river rapids, as they are quick dry, currents and will turn you unpredictably. A quad fin setup, insulated and offer great protection against rocks and using two-inch fins is the best setup for river. sharp objects on the river floor.

2018 / 2019 EDITION 25 FEATURE RIVER & ESTUARY

“The wind and the waves, these killed us” he explains. “On “My favourite memory from the expedition has to be SUP ACROSS SWEDEN the lakes and on the Baltic sea, we were using these Kona setting off from a tiny little rock island in the middle of inflatable paddle boards and they stood the test for the Lake Vanern “ he says. “We were all pretty weary after a Gothenburg to Stockholm via the great lakes flat waters and small waves, but we got caught in a storm long day battling against the current and across some on Lake Vattern with near 6ft waves beating down on us massive beds of water, eventually stopping here. We put as well as the wind pushing us well off course”. on some music, poured a shot of whisky each enjoyed the sunset. In the morning the waters were dead calm and “We had a few scary moments when we lost contact with clear and the sun was beaming. After an hour or so we one of our team members, Alex. George had come off all jumped overboard skinny dipping and mucking about his board and after rescuing him we realized Alex had like big kids. That was a fun morning just messing about disappeared. We hadn’t seen him for over 3 hours by the and enjoying the beauty of the lake.” time the other four of us made it to Fjuk Island, 2/3rds of the way across this lake”. Training for an expedition like this can make or break your journey, and if done right, you should make it through with “I spoke with the coast guard and we coordinated a search all the physical and mental strength required. and rescue operation to find Alex who was about 10km off course” he divulges. “Boats and helicopters were zipping “We did a couple of paddle board training sessions with about, and the longer it takes to find him the more your Kiko Mathews from ‘The Big Stand’ in London. We got the mind wanders as you fear the worst. I knew he had a basics down and that was that, although paddle boarding life jacket though and he’s a smart guy so was always in the winter of England is very different from in the sun in optimistic”. Sweden” he explains. “Most of the expedition was down to mental strength rather than physical ability, but all the “When the call came through to one of the rescue guys boys put in some running and cardio work to make sure radio it was something like “We’ve found his board”, it we were all in shape.” must have been maybe another minute before I heard them then say “there is someone on it wearing a red “Apart from the training, the most difficult bit is always and black life jacket”, I’m laughing now after the longest getting to the start line, finding sponsors and being able minute ever, I’m thinking ‘What? Bloody hell…Lead with to cover the costs of the trip. It’s the not so sexy side of the ‘you’ve found HIM’ first, not the damn board’. In truth the world of adventure and honestly the sponsors Mountain rescue guys we’re amazing and operated with spread and Warehouse and 24 hour Meals only came through in the precision, I’m thankful to them.” last few weeks before we flew out” he clarifies. In 2016, Tarran Kent-Hume and We caught up with Tarran recently with a few questions a team of Stand up Paddle about his challenge. Every challenge has its highlights, and when you are “Logistics is the other headache, again it’s all how do we travelling through challenging places, sometimes the get from the airport to the start point and then where do Boarders completed a 15 day 700 “SUP Sweden was to stand up Paddle Board from simplest things can be the most memorable. we have food drops and so on, once we set off you just kilometres Stand Up Paddle Board Gothenburg to Stockholm via the great lakes, on the Gota Canal and through the Baltic Sea” He explains. expedition through Sweden. “After my incredible yet intense experience of kayaking Tarran is an Australian Adventure the Amazon River, where I escaped pirates, gunfire, crazy electrical storms and sunstroke, I wanted to share my Athlete who has competed in a love of adventure with some friends and after a couple number of different sports and of glasses of wine. adventures and the team was “I got chatting with one of my mates, Marcus, in Stockholm itching for a new challenge and Sweden and he mentioned that Gota canal which lots of boats pass through and people cycle the length of. From they literally just set out to make it here I did my research and wanted to make it tougher and happen. do a first and the distance from Gothenburg to Stockholm worked out at just over a marathon a day, so that was that”.

“I wanted to do something fun and exciting that would combine a couple of the things that make me tick, the things that get me excited about life, Adventure and Friends. Adventure is a great excuse for us all to take a breath and live in the present with no stress of the outside world. We’ll laugh together, eat together, live together and SUP together.

Like most outdoor expeditions, a challenge like this comes with its…well…challenges, and Tarran’s Swedish SUP tour had plenty of barriers to break through.

26 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 27 FEATURE RIVER & ESTUARY

“I met Alex McCormick through Twitter when he played in the world record football game as well. This guy is a beast: Ironman, Body Builder and Marathon runner. George Baksa and I met a few months before the adventure and we hit it off, he’s a lot of fun and also has a ridiculous boxing record of something like 31 fights 0 losses.”

Tarran has some advice for anyone who wants to set themselves a challenge.

“DO IT; we only regret the chances in life we don’t take. Adventure doesn’t have to be expensive or crazy to fill your soul up; it helps if you’re a bit scared. Honestly, if you’re not a bit scared beforehand then achieving it isn’t the same. I say be scared, be a bit naive, and start. The amount of people who have long lists of the reasons why they can’t do something when in reality they just need one good enough reason to say “Hell, lets live a little”.” find solutions along the way because you have no other option”. Tarran’s 8 easy steps for an adventure When you put a team together for an expedition like this, you need to make sure everyone is compatible and 1.Work out how many days you have trustworthy. Tarran explains how his team grouped. 2.Pick a start point 3.Pick a destination “The team was a mix of old and new friends. Luke Hindes 4.Figure a way to travel there (bicycle, hike, SUP) is my brother really, we’ve been boys since I first moved to 5.Make sure you have enough time to complete the London in 2003, and he’s a teacher as well as competing in adventure and get home, if you want to take it slower, BJJ, World Record holder, competed in 5km Swim. Anthony great or if you want to push yourself then think what your Hennelly is again another awesome friend who’s a football max distance you can cover per day and add another 50% coach and played in this world record football game back on top. in 2013.” 6.Get your equipment sorted: tents, sleeping bags, food supply, water etc. “I met Alex McCormick through Twitter when he played in 7.Maps, I use a GPS and a phone. Most of the world has the world record football game as well. This guys a beast, coverage on your phone so use it, saves weight and excess Ironman, Body Builder and Marathon runner. George Baksa baggage. and I met a few months before the adventure and we hit it 8.Safety, tell someone where you’re going, if it’s a longer off, he’s a lot of fun and also has a ridiculous boxing record journey be smart, sort out some strategies for this. If it’s a of something like 31 fights 0 losses.” weekend adventure, tell someone then forget about it and lose yourself in the adventure. “Apart from the training, the most difficult bit is always getting to the start line, finding sponsors and being able to cover the costs of the trip. It’s the not so sexy side of the world of adventure and honestly the sponsors Mountain So what’s next for Tarran Kent-Hume? Warehouse and 24 hour Meals only came through in the last few weeks before we flew out. Logistics is the other “Australia is next; I’m coming home again. I’m looking to headache, again it’s all how do we get from the airport hike and paddle through the heart of Tasmania’s world to the start point and then where do we have food drops heritage listed forests on a solo adventure. I haven’t been and so on, once we set off you just find solutions along back here for many years and I can’t wait to reacquaint the way because you have no other option.” myself with this beautiful island all over again.”

When you put a team together for an expedition like this, you need to make sure everyone is compatible and trustworthy. Tarran explains how his team grouped.

“The team was a mix of old and new friends. Luke Hindes is my brother really, we’ve been boys since I first moved to London in 2003, and he’s a teacher as well as competing in BJJ, World Record holder, competed in 5 kilometre swim. Anthony Hennelly is again another awesome friend who’s a football coach and played in this world record football game back in 2013.

28 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE FEATURE RIVER & ESTUARY

about this place. Seeing all the pictures, footage and STIKINE RIVER KAYAKING hearing his stories from the last thirty years gave me the most intense feeling of nostalgia. Gothenburg to Stockholm via the great lakes Doug Ammons mentioned the 2000 kilometre drive up to the put in saying; “It’s the loneliest drive a kayaker can make.” I now understand what he was talking about. There is plenty of time to think, all you can really think about are the stories you have been told. Most of them horror stories of trying to hike out of the canyon up a vertical rock face then 3 days walking through some of the highest density of grizzly bear populations in Canada. I just kept trying to tell myself that you only hear the bad stories. Surely people had good times in there also?

During the following three days this question was surely answered. Paddling the Stikine, has to date, been the greatest thing I have done in my kayaking career. All the research I did before hand made me the world’s biggest fan of this river and now all of a sudden I was right in the middle of this beautiful place.

I could see - that’s where Bob McDougall climbed out of the Canyon, that’s where Doug Ammons had to sit and wait for a heli evac, John Wasson swam in this hole, here Benny Marr did the first descent of site Zed, the legendary camp spots and the 1.5m wide Tanzilla slot that the river passes though. All these places had their own story in the history of the Stikine.

However, it was much more than just this short history, it is an overwhelming feeling being in a canyon of that scale The weather gods gave us a clear passage. I think that on a river that has been grinding away for millions of years. can make all the difference in the canyon. Actually we It really feels like some sort of time capsule. Standing in a had a relatively stress free descent of the river, well a place that not many other humans have ever walked is a stress free descent on the Stikine is an oxymoron, this just nice contrast to the high paced world we live in these days. means no one lost a boat, got eaten by a bear or had to swim for many km’s or worse. There were still plenty of By Jared Meehan nervous moments. Having to think about both filming and Images - Darin McQuoid Myself and Olaf Obsommer (GER) planned to shoot a paddling a new river is a little more challenging, I found documentary looking at some of the history of the myself shooting the guys scouting and discussing lines river followed by our descent. So we assembled a team and not having the time to listen. So I would have a quick Between Northern BC in Canada including Sam Sutton (NZL), Gerd and Aniol Serasolses scout after packing my gear away. and Alaska winds one of the truly (ESP) and Darin McQuoid (USA). wild major rivers on the planet. It When I was speaking with Rob Lesser, he transferred The first thing I did was research. I found all sorts of great this pearl of wisdom which is worth considering when is known to the local Tlingit Indian information on the river including two productions; The planning a Stikine expedition; “If you have the chance to people as Shtax’ H’een and has American Sportsman episode from 1985 and National run it without someone who has run it before, assemble a meaning ‘Great River’. Its fame Geographic’s “Stikine River Fever” from 1999. a team and go and do it. You will have that first primal experience; your Stikine was unguided. But don’t do it has risen amongst adventuring I found two names to be synonymous with the Stikine; Rob unless you have the talent, you know the capabilities of whitewater kayakers for over 30 Lesser and Doug Ammons. I emailed them both and they others on the team are and you feel you a ready for it” years since its first descent in 1981. both said they would be happy to meet and share some This is a great piece of advice. of their insights into the river. I booked flights to Montana As a young kayaker I too heard and Idaho and before I knew it I was sitting down chatting The river really is a big puzzle and you only get one chance about this wild place, and I must with these Stikine River veterans. to do it the first time. Savor it, enjoy it, respect the place. say I could not be comfortable Kayakers are very lucky to have the skills to be able to Meeting Rob and Doug was amazing; two incredible experience a place like the Stikine. To be able to film it getting to the end of my life having explorers. Rob Lesser is really the voice of the Stikine. His and show this place to others is also a privilege and while not attempted this great piece of office is full of old slides, maps and publications about it isn’t the same as being there hopefully more people will whitewater. the river. Meeting with these legends changed something understand the value in keeping these special places safe in me. I had imagined the river so much it felt like I had and free from dams. I look forward to making it back to already been there. I was now a substantiated fanatic the Stikine one day. Maybe I can show my children this place in the future. 30 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 31 Smooth water does not make a skillful paddler. No matter what type of paddle sport you are into, there is a good chance you will want to (at some point) attempt hitting the surf on your craft. The surf can be unpredictable at the best of times and takes some decent skill to approach the wave break, whether coming in or going out and takes dedication and some knowhow to successfully master it.

Not All Craft Are Created Equal on a kayak you can use them to your advantage to get past the break with barely any effort, on other craft, however; Not all craft are designed for the surf. Some craft are they can be as dangerous as if you were trying to swim absurdly difficult to sustain control of. The craft that is through it. long, thin, and designed to power through the water is not designed for the wave break. But this doesn’t stop us • Be Patient and Time your Launch from giving it all we’ve got every time we try to make it our own. More than likely, if you have attempted a surf break • Plan your approach. Get at least a little bit out in the water entry, you will also have found yourself upside down, face before you jump on your craft. It will offer you less paddle time. full of the ocean floor, with some sort of fibreglass beast pounding over the top of you. Some simply give up after • Lift your craft over the waves to minimise resistance. that, and that’s the reason for so many shiny new boats on Gumtree every Monday morning. But, if only you’d • Commit! This is the most important part. Don’t fluff about if you been told the right way to approach a break before you know the timing is right. Commit to the entry and GO GO GO!! attempted it for the first time, right? Well, here are some great beginners’ tips for approaching the surf with a surf • Go straight on into the waves ski, kayak, stand up paddleboard or outrigger canoe for the very first time. If a wave is coming, point your craft straight into it. Knifing the front end straight into it will cut through it, giving The Ocean Always Changes less of a chance that you’ll end up face down on the sand where you started from. The ocean is different every time you enter, so giving some set rules for every time you go in is pointless, so a • Aim straight out...unless a course change can guarantee a ride basic guide to the safest way to approach waves will be over unbroken swell. The less time in the surf zone, the better. best. Your paddle is often the best form of stability you have, and you must keep on paddling to keep up speed • Paddle hard. The idea is to get past the surf break as fast as and momentum. Use your paddle to keep you standing if possible. Do It! you are standing, use it to balance your craft in the water. Knowing which way to turn is vital, to pull you out of a Don’t stop before you get past the sets that may break situation where the wave takes control of you. Even small out deeper. These are the waves that can fool you and waves can fool you. You may think you’re a pro at small leave you capsized in much deeper water. It’s better that waves, but underneath, a small wave is just a huge wave you paddle further out than the last wave to ensure you waiting for the right moment to pummel you. Let your don’t get smashed by a creeper out the back. The swell guard down on a small wave, and you’ll very quickly be direction can also push you back in further than you think, upside down, face in the sand. so just keep on paddling.

Watch and Learn! SUP Specific tips

Spend as much time as you can watching the surf before 1. Short quick strokes are crucial. 2. Right before you hit the you paddle into it. Watch the timing of the wave’s intervals, wave, step into a low and wide surf stance to raise the nose of and watch what the sets are doing further out. They can the board over the wave. 3. Once you hit the wave, immediately take a few minutes between sets, so watch closely to see stroke directly behind the crest of the wave. 4. If you fall down what they are doing. If you don’t understand what they in the surf zone, it might just be simpler to paddle out on are doing, you could be halfway out, and get pounded by your belly like on a surfboard. Stick the blade of the paddle a wave you never saw coming. Watch out for rip currents, under your chest and paddle away!

32 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 33 FEATURE SURF

Lincoln Dews is known in the SUP world as a ‘professional waterman - who’s skilled at it all’ and has become a permanent fixture at the top end of SUP races over the Extraordinary Man last five years. An Interview with Lincoln Dews We caught up with him just before the SUP National Titles for an interview. At the time of this interview, Lincoln was fresh off the water from the last event of the year, the Pacific Paddle Games, where he took out overall points winner for the weekend, securing his Maiden World Title.

Lincoln Dews has recently claimed The Paddle League World Title after an exciting weekend of racing. On the last day of paddling, Lincoln beat Brazilian Guilherme dos Reis to claim the overall Pacific Paddle Games crown, etching his name in the history books as the first ever Paddle League Men’s World Champion.

Lincoln, you’re very involved in many aspects of water sports, can you tell us a bit about your life growing up and how your love of the ocean began?

“Growing up in a family where everything revolved around the ocean, it was just something I fell into. I had the opportunity to try many sports growing up, but I think the challenge of trying to master something new is a feeling that stuck with me until today,” he says.

Being involved in so many different water sports, how does a regular week look for you with training, fun, and travel?

“My weeks vary, depending on what events I have coming up. Usually, in a paddling block, I will be on the board 6-7 times a week, plus cross-training. Obviously, with traveling so much, it becomes hard, but I do like to knock out a good session at least once a day.”

Lincoln Dews is one of the most His previous family generations comprise of all types Racing is competitive, and there are always significant of professional watermen, from commercial fishermen challenges, but mateship is also a great way to challenge extraordinary young men in to professional surfers, and sailors. His father is former yourself, especially when your mates are all talented as Australian sports. From a family Ironman Champion Geoff Dews, who has always been a well. that has four generations deeply big inspiration and supporter of Lincoln. Who is your favourite person to race and compete rooted into professional waterman Lincoln grew up in Maroochydore, Australia and had many against? culture, he has made a solid opportunities to learn and develop his skills in multiple name for himself in Competitive disciplines. “That’s a tough one, across every sport I want to compete and test myself against the best guys. Although racing Surf Life Saving, Surfing, Sailing, Whether fishing with his family, racing in surf lifesaving or against Michael Booth is my favourite,” Lincoln tells us. Foiling and Stand Up Paddle spending his weekends surfing with mates, this professional Boarding. In everything he does, waterman appreciates a challenge and loves being in the Michael Booth is another elite waterman like Dews, and ocean. After winning the U14 QLD state ironman title, he the two are head to head in world domination, with Booth he excels. In professional Stand Up competed in the Molokai2Oahu paddleboard race with a 2 x Australian Champion, the 2016 World Champion Paddle Boarding he is one of the his father. At any age, it’s a huge challenge, but at just 14, and back to back European Tour Champion in 2017/2018. fastest achievers in performance that’s a pretty mean feat in itself. What’s your next big race/challenge? ever seen in the sport. He is For Lincoln, competing in this race was a dream come extremely passionate and has the true, and would shape his career, and his incredible love “I’ve always tried to do projects which excite and inspire uncompromised motivation that affair for the challenges of open ocean racing. This love me. I’ll be involved in the Red Bull Heavy Water event and affair has, of course, driven him to success, and continues Sydney 2 Hobart yacht race in the coming months which pushes him to his successes. to inspire him almost ten years later. will be a really cool experience. “

34 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 35 FEATURE

ADVERT

Techniques vary dramatically in any sport between sprint What is the best training tip you ever received? racing and marathon or long distance, and when it comes to paddle sports, although distances can be a lot shorter Achieve goals with small steps, without overreaching. than running, for example, the physical energy to get you to the end of the race can be far more demanding. And finally, Lincoln’s Pro Tip merely is “Watch the best guys and copy them; they are the best for a Tell us a bit about your techniques for distance racing. reason.” How do you pace yourself for a race like Molokai2Oahu, and how does it differ from methods for other races?

“That’s something I’m still trying to work out. The beauty of SUP is there’s a lot of different race formats, meaning the way I pace, and the way I plan each race varies. However, I’ve always been a ‘lead from the front’ kind of paddler. I like to set my pace early and try to hold it constant throughout the course of the race.”

Lincoln is of course heavily involved in some other water sports and competes at many different levels for each. He says, although paddling has undoubtedly been his focus the last few years, he is an avid sailor and surfer and is looking forward to pursuing more projects in these areas soon.

For the amateurs reading who want to take the next step, what are your top tips for becoming better, or even Pro at their chosen paddle sport?

Persistence. Become a student of paddling and work every single day to learn the craft. Take small steps to get better.

36 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 37 FEATURE SURF

Dynamic Balance is balance in motion. This is in sharp Surf Fitness contrast to the postures you perform in yoga class. Anticipatory Balance is related to agility. It means that you Ride the Waves and Go with the Flow can anticipate the next pattern of the waves, and prepare accordingly.

Transitional Balance is required for movement fluidity.

When choosing exercises for a surf-fitness program, it’s important to select workouts that enhance all three types of balance. Fortunately, with the excellent variety of balance-training tools on the market, it’s possible to cover all three aspects in one exercise. For example, the Stability Ball Toss and Catch is a superb exercise for developing core strength, agility and balance.

You will need a partner for this exercise:

• Partners sit facing each other on the ball, about one foot away. One person sits upright. The other holds the ball from the “crunch” position.

• The person holding the ball tosses it to her partner. This brings her to the upright position.

• As the partner catches the ball, she goes into the crunch position.

Only do as many repetitions as you can perform using good form. Stop if either partner feels the exercise in their neck or lower back.

Bosu for Surfers

The Bosu is another fantastic piece of surf-fitness training your weight forwards and backwards, and then side to equipment. There are two sides to a Bosu; the dome side side. Try a few squats. Can you keep the board centered? Want to catch some waves? Then get and the platform side. The dome side exercises are similar surf-fit with these sport-specific exercise What is Sport-Specific Training? to those performed on a stability ball, while the platform Surf-Agility tips that will keep you out there riding the side is similar to a balance or wobble board. As such, the breakers for longer. In the past decade, sport scientists have begun to Bosu is an excellent investment for anyone who does not Plyometric exercises on the Bosu are great for developing reevaluate the way we get fit for a specific sport. Past have the funds and/or the room for a stability ball and a surf-specific strength, balance coordination and agility. Surfing is one of the few sports that require sport training programs usually involved isolation balance board. Check out the Bosu Jump, Toss and Squat all aspects of fitness: exercises, which strengthened the muscles used for the sport. However, according to movement science research, The Bosu is an excellent tool for developing proprioception, > Stand on top of the Bosu. Feet are parallel, and open Aerobic Endurance traditional strength training does little to enhance sport- which is your body’s awareness of its position, posture to the width of your average surf stance. Strength specific skill. and alignment in space. Since water environments are Flexibility not similar to the typical concrete on which we walk, > Inhale and jump. Coordination As such, trainers are now using the dynamic pattern theory proprioception is extremely important for surfers. Agility of motor learning, which states that the brain is more Proprioceptive skills also enhance dynamic, anticipatory > As you exhale, land in this sequence: Toes first, then Balance efficient at memorizing movement patterns than it is at and transitional balance skills. the ball of the foot, then the heels, then squat. If you body Proprioception muscular isolation. For example, consider the traditional is in correct alignment, there will be minimal wobbling leg extension machine. Its movements are in no way Try this Bosu Proprioception Exercise: Start by simply of the feet upon landing. However, don’t expect to be Your traditional gym workouts will take similar to those used in surfing. Now, imagine a squat, standing on the Bosu. Now close your eyes. You will paralyzed! Remember, athletic balance is dynamic. There care of your strength and aerobic performed in a surfer’s stance on a Bosu or wobble board. probably feel an exaggeration of the body’s mechanisms may be some small degree of motion occurring. requirements, and your yoga class will The exercise now resembles the movements of surfing, for adjusting to balance challenges. Open your eyes and be more than adequate for flexibility. and is therefore a better way to enhance surf-specific skills. raise one arm. Follow it with your eyes. Keep following You can add agility training to this exercise by tossing a However, for surf-specific coordination, your hand as you bring it down, to the left and right, and medicine ball in the air as you jump up , and catching it agility, balance and proprioception, Surf Balance back behind you. Repeat this using your opposite arm. when you land in the squat. you will need a surf specific workout. Let’s start with balance training. Surfing requires three When you become comfortable with the Bosu, turn it over Surf’s up! Are you ready? Get on board with a surf fitness

by M Newbold - www.getfitforsurfing.com different types of balance: Articles ArticlesFactory.com from Story Free Source: and use it as a wobble board. Stand on the board and shift plan!

38 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 39 Only the guy who isn’t rowing has time to rock the boat.

Elite paddle athletes will train 2-3 times per day, 6-7 days per week. Training typically involves a blend of on-water training, cross-training sessions and resistance training. On-water training sessions will usually include aerobic or endurance training as well as race-pace training efforts. Sprint races last anywhere between 30 seconds and five minutes, and anaerobic and aerobic demands will vary. On the other end of the scale, marathon paddle races are not dissimilar to ultra-marathon running and can last many hours, and some (like the Massive Murray Paddle) can even last many days.

Training diet important for fuelling your body during training and competition For both sprint race and marathon race training, your * Coconut Water - contains sugar and electrolytes, but training diet should be focused on fuelling your body is lower in calories and sodium than sports drinks with energy for training, and quickly recovering before Water – for maintenance of optimal hydration your next session. If you can’t take a drink bottle on your craft with you, and Energy intake is usually quite high, as the body needs to you are planning long sessions, a hydration backpack is maintain a high level of lean muscle mass. This helps to the best option. They are simple to use and will keep you meet the needs of your high-volume training. Your diet hydrated. should include a fine balance of wholegrain and low GI carbohydrates, mixed with low-fat dairy, lean protein, and Before Competition lots of fruits and vegetables. Adequate nutrition is critical for recovery around training sessions. Because you may have several races per day, a carbohydrate-containing meal 2-4 hours before the start During high-intensity training sessions and during of competition is a perfect fuel top up before race day competitions, you should increase the amount of begins. carbohydrate-rich foods in your diet. Eating additional carbohydrate high snacks before training will also help. Wholegrain cereal; Toast and a tub of yoghurt; Pikelets with ricotta and banana; Eggs on toast and a piece of Cereal with banana; Hummus with crackers and fruit with a glass of milk; Fruit salad and yoghurt vegetable sticks; Muesli; Wholegrain crackers and a tin of tuna; Homemade muffin or slice; Nut Bars; Handful During Comp Eating of dried fruit and nuts; Fruit smoothie; Sandwich with lean meat and cheese; Tub of coconut or natural dairy Eating during Competitions is as important as your yoghurt and toast; Toasted sandwich preparation. You should pack snacks instead of relying on venue facilities, as the right options for you might not Hydration needs for paddling be available. During comp snack examples are:

Maintaining excellent hydration practices is vital. Whether Fresh fruit or Tinned Fruit; Muesli Bars or nut bars; Trail you are paddling recreationally or competing, or training mix ; Sandwiches with jam, honey, banana, cheese, peanut for competition this is always going to be the case. Your butter; Flavoured milks; Tubs of yoghurt; Creamed rice ; fluid intake will vary depending on your personal sweat Crackers; Muffins or protein balls rate, the air and water temperatures and your ability to drink during your training or exercise. Recovery

In competition, dehydration can dramatically impact your To allow your body to repair and rejuvenate, you need to performance, and being 100% in control of your liquid feed it the right foods. These can include the following: intake it crucial to your success. Your fluid plans should include a combination of: Eggs; Tuna; Ham; Chicken; Sandwiches with all or any of the above work well; Dairy-based shakes; Dried fruit & nut * Electrolyte Drinks - replaces sodium lost in sweat mix; Lots of fresh fruit; Burgers * Sports Drinks – carbohydrates and electrolytes are

2018 / 2019 EDITION 41 FEATURE SURF

training group that taught me how to train, push hard, and have fun! I have always lived at the coast, and now, Focus On A Champion even though I am based on another continent, I still have From The Olympics to SurfSki Champ the ocean as my home”. “Even though I spent a large part of my career in a sprint boat, and raced a lot of rivers, my true love has always been the ocean. I surf still today, and even though I find myself racing less and less, paddling downwind is going to be a part of my life forever!”

Being a training coach, and world champion, Michele has some important tips to offer for anyone wanting to take on ocean paddling.

“Progress within your ability level,” Michele says.

“The ocean demands your utmost respect, and the price for not giving that can be large! Of course, to improve you need to challenge yourself, but be sure to challenge yourself in incrementally more challenging steps/ conditions. But, do so with all of your safety means in check! This should always include a PFD, leash, communication, and competent buddies to paddle with.”

“There is no shame in not going out because it is over your skill level,” she says. “And the good news is that if you work hard enough, and find yourself a great teacher, you will get to a point where you can go out in some hectic conditions and still have a blast.” mates. Paddling against your mates in competition is exciting and can push you much harder, especially when For anyone who is ready to take the next step, these are they challenge you well. Michele told us that her favourite Michele’s tips for becoming better, or even a Pro at your people to race against are the people who give her a chosen paddle sport . proper, fair fight!

Do the small things right, every day. “I have had some great competitors to race against over the past two decades! Some of my favourites are Becoming the best is a mammoth and over-whelming task, my friends Nikki Mocke, Maggie Hogan, Robyn Owen but if you break it down into small, manageable parts, and and Teneale Hatton. Mainly because these girls give it We recently caught up with Michele to find out what aim to get those right, you will go a long way to achieving everything, no matter what,” she says. Michele Eray is a product of makes a true champion. Michele is very involved in many your main goal. Plettenberg Bay, a seaside town on aspects of paddle sports, with Olympic performances and Michele is a champion in both canoeing and surf ski. We the Garden Route in South Africa’s World Titles under her belt. And asked about growing up, Surround yourself with people who make you asked how her training schedules differ between the two the love of the ocean and she has some very important better. different paddle sports. Western Cape Province. Her first tips for anyone who wishes to pursue their paddling great achievement was competing professionally. Find a great coach and mentor (if you are investing 20+ Michele says, “I spend a fair amount of time doing in the Beijing Olympics, and since hours of training a week, you owe it to yourself to hire conditioning work in the canoe, as it is harder for me (no “I grew up in a small beach town in the South Western someone who is an expert, wants the best for you, and surfing on a run with paddles down!) and it demands great then, has competed all over the coastline of South Africa. It is an incredible place and has has the means to get you there). technique otherwise you will get dropped in the session. world and was the International produced many elite level athletes across many disciplines Surf ski training has to involve a lot of technical workouts Canoe federation (ICF) WorldSurfSki including paddling, surf lifesaving, sailing, mountain Most athletes are happy to share knowledge, and everyone - specifically downwind and choppy conditions, whatever biking, trail running and adventure racing. There must be needs a training partner! you will race in. Champion in 2013. something in the water!” Positive, professional people will help you become the There is a huge difference between training for marathons At the end of 2013 she moved to Michele started Nippers as an 8-year-old and spent a same. and sprint racing, and we asked Michele about how her majority of her younger years in the ocean surfing, which training methods change between the two. California to run the Sprint High her school offered it as a sport. From there she progressed Don’t be afraid of the hard work! Performance program for USA to Surf Life Saving and started paddling a surf ski. “I could say a lot on this topic, but I will say the biggest Canoe/Kayak, which is the national Most competitors in paddle sports paddle with friends, difference is technique,” she says. “My local high school also offered canoeing as a winter and mateship is a huge part of paddling culture. Mateship Governing Body for Olympic Paddle sport, so I started that to supplement my surf ski paddling. is where paddling culture begins. Even from a very young “Marathon paddling demands a very efficient paddling Sports. I was lucky to have some great coaches, and a strong age, the competitive side of paddling begins against your technique, while sprinting, specifically the 200-metre sprint

42 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 43 FEATURE RACE

is going to demand a far more dynamic, and explosive Surf Life Saving, to Olympic Sprinting, to River Racing, technique. There are even differences in how we prepare to Marathon World Champs and of course my true love, a 200-metre athlete versus a 1000-metre athlete, so the Surf Ski.” physiology side can get quite specific. “For the past 2 years my primary focus has been Paddle Even a 200-metre specialist needs endurance to last the California, the business I started with Maggie Hogan. I full 200 metres. Marathon paddlers also need speed. If you have definitely not had the energy to give paddling the full think about the marathon start, bunch changes, going into attention it deserves, if I would like to still be competitive. a portage/rapid first, and the end sprint there is a lot of I am strangely happy with that, as I have had a lovely power needed. Three is a lot of cross-over between sprint long and successful career, and the time has come to and marathon, and also a lot of differences” focus on earning a living, and this business gives me the opportunity to also give back to the sport I love so much.” Michele told us the best training tip she ever received was that “Luck is what happens when preparation meets “That being said, I am turning 40 next year! As is Maggie, opportunity! Never stop learning, and you are responsible and we have some grand plans on doing four big crossings. for your results.” Stay tuned for more,” she says.

Michele Eray also runs a paddle school in Newport Beach in Southern California, which teaches paddling to people of any age, and any skill level. Michele’s Paddling Technique Pro Tip

“Our surf ski school program is designed for any age Your hips are the key to a safe and effective person wanting to get into surf ski. We teach the total paddling technique! They are the link between basics of surf ski paddling - from handling the equipment, your upper and lower body. Be sure to look to efficient technique, to safety and remounts. We use after them and keep them mobile! And don’t the word “school” as it is lesson-based paddle teaching, forget to use them to ensure rotation! so no ages are excluded. Our goal is mainly to get more people stoked on surf ski and get more people out there paddling.”

Being involved in so many aspects of paddling - business, coaching, and competition a regular week for Michele is hectic to say the least.

“Our summers are crazy! We structure our time around the bigger paddling events, where we offer workshops and coaching sessions. The US is a large place, so we do spend a lot of time on the road. Also, as we cover all aspects of paddle sports, this can add up to a lot of events over the year,” she says.

“There is no “regular” week for us, which I love! Fortunately, a lot of our work is virtual, as we work with a lot of online training clients, so we really can be anywhere and still work, at certain times of the year.”

“When we get Nelo shipments in, we usually deliver them ourselves. There is nothing better than seeing happy paddlers with their new boats. So, that also keeps us on the road. The great part of delivering these great boats is there are so many cool places to visit and paddle here in the US, like Lake Tahoe which is a favourite. I love my job!”

Michele has had a highly competitive career and reached the highest levels possible in any sport. She is a training coach for some of the most elite paddlers the world has ever seen, and she runs a business that supplies boats to paddlers. So, what’s next for Michele?

“I have had the great privilege of being able to race at the front end of Paddle Sports for the past 25 years, from

44 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 45 SPECIAL PADDLE FEATURE RAFTING

Driving further up the river you’ll arrive at the point where White Water Rafting you’ll be starting your journey. It’s here that you’ll get your first taste of rafting. Each raft has one instructor who sits at the back of the raft, helps you avoid rocks, cracks Christchurch, New Zealand jokes, ensures safety and in general makes sure you have a great time.

Your instructor will brief you all on the basics, which include things like paddling, lunging to one side and pulling people back into the raft if they fall out (which can and probably will happen). You get plenty of chance to practise all these things as you gently make your way down a long calm patch of the river. After everyone in your raft is confident with the skills, it’s time to hit your first rapids!

This is definitely the most exciting part and what makes people come back for more. It’s a real adrenaline rush as your raft is thrown through the rapids, you can feel the power of the water as you bump up and down and side to side with each dip and change of direction.

The instructors do a great job of keeping you on the right path although you’ll have to help them out when they need it, some rapid paddling is required to get through some of the tough spots. As you head further down the river, you’ll get to enjoy a lot more exciting rapids that really get the heart going.

Sometimes they can be so intense that people fall out or rafts flip over, this isn’t uncommon and the instructors will alert you if you need to pick up someone that went overboard. The risk factor is all part of the excitement but at no stage does it fell dangerous. The strength (or

Find out why New Zealand’s South grading) of the river changes throughout the year but Most operators that take rafting trips on the Rangitata will always give you some very challenging sections of Island is the adventure sport capital River take you to and from Christchurch in a shuttle. Like white water. of the world with an exhilarating first most white water rafting trips, it can be intense at times hand experience of white water and without needing to be a professional athlete, it helps if The main part of the trip lasts for a couple of hours before you are reasonably fit. The more you put in, the more you the river flattens out and you get the chance to have a bit rafting down the Rangitata River, will get out of this experience, so if flying down gushing of fun with the other rafts, i.e. splashing them with your found just outside of Christchurch. rapids is your kind of thing, then you’re going to have a oars or throwing their instructor in the water. You may Going down the rapids is a truly great time. The day starts off with a shuttle picking you also get the chance to jump off some very high rocks or up from Christchurch early in the morning. float down sections of the river out of the raft (this is when awesome experience and one that you’ll be glad you’re in a wetsuit). you’ll be raving to your friends about From here it’s a simple but pleasant drive through the for weeks. countryside on your way to the Rangitata River. Once After loading the rafts onto the trailers, you’ll head back reaching the river, you drive further up it to a lodge where up to the lodge for a well-earned barbeque. By this stage you will start your day of activities. you should be exhausted, just managing to stay in the raft by Rene Smith all day can be hard work! The first thing that needs organising is your equipment. About 2 hours drive from Christchurch you will find the This consists of things like a wetsuit, helmet, life jacket After some laughs and a few final words it’s time to head Rangitata River. It’s located near Geraldine, a beautiful area etc. They may not be the most comfortable or fashionable home. You get the opportunity to buy photos taken of of the South Island with some stunning landscapes and but the water can be cold so you’ll definitely appreciate your rafts, which is a nice touch , albeit a slightly expensive natural features on view. The river is also perfectly suited it. After being kitted out, you’ll be split into groups that one. Going down the rapids is a truly awesome experience for white water rafting with a number of exhilarating rapids will make up those on your raft. It’s great if you’ve got a and one that you’ll be raving to your friends about for to go with the flat sections that are great for practising bunch of friends to go with but if not, you’ll probably meet weeks. White water rafting comes highly recommended your skills or getting a well-earned breather. some new ones by the end of the day anyway. for anyone visiting Christchurch and looking for something

Story Source: Free Articles ArticlesFactory.com from Story Free Source: exciting to try.

46 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 47 flameless lighters. Flameless… easy to charge, and they will Arc Lighters There is a great range of USB last ages. You won’t ever need GEAR REVIEWS rechargeable Arc lighters that another lighter again. Lighting a fire when you are are windproof and flameless out and about while trekking, When it comes time to paddle or if you’re off on an adventure, you want to make sure you to make your life easy when hiking or mountain biking when you are out and about. They have the right gear. We had the pleasure of testing some amazing products for off and you are short of time can be a don’t need gas, they don’t bit stressful. When it’s windy, need other flammable liquids onshore recently. Here are our favourites, reviewed by different members of the team. it can be difficult to light a fire, and they won’t blow out in the when it’s raining it’s even harder. FLIPROCKS alpine winds. These lighters are One of the best inventions for durable as they have a metal Ok so sometimes when you hear about or see a really cutting edge product you tend adventurers would have to be to get a little bit excited yeah? Well I came across a product that is now available here in casing, they look great, they are Australia, FlipRocks – Extreme Flip Flops. I suppose we call them thongs but when they come with Velcro attachable interchangeable grip pads they are Flip Flops. On a serious note, I received mine 3 weeks ago and have not taken them off other than when going PelicanTM Mobile to bed. I have worn them casually, when out on my SUP and on a hike through the TIA HEX Backpacks and APSLEY Gorges in NSW. In fact the pads are so easy to interchange and walk in and I actually had the pleasure of testing out Protect Backpack due to the construction do not hurt your feat when walking on a gravel or sandy patch. two Hex backpacks over the past couple As a seasoned traveller, I have always The Water Trekker pads that I had on ensured no slip, even with a dodgy knee. The guys of months. The first is the Signal backpack been keen to try out new ways to carry at www.fliprocks.com.au have them in stock and available for immediate shipping. There which is a great bag for travel - when you everything required for a trip, without is also a special discount code that they have kindly given us for all purchases made just can’t leave your computer at home! skimping on the essentials. As a writer direct online, check out their ad in the mag for more information. Oh and did I mention It’s actually also good if you’re just going and photographer, I needed protection, the one unique feature of the FlipRocks which is unlike any other sandal/thong/flip flop to work or you have a meeting and need and this range of backpacks allows out there? Well its in the toe-guard design, anyone who’s ever kicked an onboard cleat or to take the essentials. It fits a laptop up the safe transportation anywhere of bloodied their toe on the rocks can appreciate that. to 15” and is water resistant, so if you’re my valuable items. It is a solidly built heading out on a paddle adventure and structure that I light-weight, and easy want to record everything as you go Red Original Pro to use in the harde\st of places. The FRILLNECK Garmin® Instinct® (we’d love to hear your story!), this bag DRIFT PADDLEBOARDS backpack has seen some solid use in the is definitely worth the investment. It’s Change Jacket last few months, kayaking on the Noosa A 100% family owned business based Watch so comfy to carry as well, and a whole I am fortunate enough to have been River, a Fraser Island camping trip, and in Darwin are the innovators behind I recently got to review the Garmin® If I could recommend ONE thing for all lot better than shoulder laptop bags. I around iSUPS for quite some time, in fact a friend borrowed it for his Mexico and the Frillneck. Whilst the original design Instinct®: the cool new, shock-proof, GPS paddlers, surfers – anyone who loves got the grey one, but there are plenty of even using one whilst paddling around Guatemala trip. dates back to 1994, the product has watch for a few weeks and it was certainly the water, to purchase before next colours and patterns available. the Florida Islands in 2016. I have to evolved to where it is today. Using an interesting experience. Though it winter, it’s the Red Original Pro Change say how impressed I was when my new The pack is still as strong and offers cutting edge materials and design took some getting used to, once I started Jacket. WOW. I actually tested this out DRIFT ACTIVE PRO arrived, considering the same protection as it was the day I to ensure that anyone purchasing playing around I thought it was a whole on a recent rainy day and loved it. This that I have been paddling another brand received it. It offers great waterproofing, lot of fun. The watch records plenty of is definitely the best thing since kayaks for the past 3 years….. the Frillneck is afforded a high level this I found out with a slip up when my of protection for the face, neck, ears data, and it’s great for the adventure were invented, but it doesn’t matter what your flavour sport is – if you love kayak overturned. Fortunately for my and head in our harsh environment. lover. It has access to GPS, GLONASS From the quality backpack, reinforced to get out no matter the weather, this camera and laptop, this backpack boasts I received my sample just before the and Galileo so you know where you’re shipping, inflatable thruster fin supports is the ultimate jacket. Basically, it fits so a water-resistant coating designed to Christmas break to ensure I had it with going, but it also has ABC and heart rate and the strap to hold it all together loosely (and is so warm) you don’t have handle everything nature offers. me when heading into the Gorges. The sensors, it’s tough and scratch resistant. when packed up were very impressive. I took it out on a camping trip and had to freeze when you take off your wetsuit Unpacked, inflated and into the river in simplicity and quality of design and The pack is very comfortable to carry a great time playing around with it, but or change from your wet clothes. It acts 35km/h winds and incoming tide I went manufacture stands out immediately, when full, and features the most the thing I loved most was being able to like a blanket, that doesn’t fall off! And for my first paddle. 2 hours later and as well as comfort and ease of use. comfortable shoulder straps I have had track everything I was doing each day. you can just wear it straight home. Its The second bag I got to review is the 7km covered I was blown away with the Even whilst out there on my SUP in 35 on any pack before. I can see myself From the number of steps I took, to the super warm, gets you dry like a towel, Clamshell DSLR backpack which is a stability and ease of tracking. In fact that km/h winds it still stayed on offering using this pack for many years to come, calories burned and distance travelled. and it looks great as well. It’s great for photographers dream. I took this one to stable that I was able to fly-fish off it as which is great! me incredible protection. Check out If you’re after a great watch to get you men, women, kayaking, surfing, fishing, Fiji with me on a recent trip and we had a well. the special offers at frillneck.com.au places, and keep track of all that info, this camping – the options are endless. You blast together! If you’re heading out on the that you as a BLADE reader are entitled is the one for you. could even keep the kids rugged up in job to hit up the latest surf championships, Jane at www.sups.com.au have some to. it. We love it and highly recommend it! I or you’re just a recreational photographer awesome deals for BLADE readers. They can’t wait to take it to NZ in winter 2019. who wants to get some great shots before spruik themselves as the SUP Package you head out for a paddle – there’s plenty specialists and I believe they certainly of space in this bag. It has plenty of pockets are. so you can take all your necessities with you, but the best part is that it has enough space for you to carry up to 2 cameras, including extra lenses. It’s lightweight, and the shoulder straps are super comfy regardless of how much technology you’re carrying. Highly recommended. It’s really got everything you could want in a DLSR bag. 49 48 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION A rough day at sea is better than any day at the office.

MILLION DOLLAR FISH

Three tried and true techniques to bag a Barra in the Northern Territory – the world’s best stay, play and fish destination.

Barramundi, or Barra as the locals call them, are the most iconic of all the native sportfish in Australia and the ‘IT FISH’ in the Northern Territory. When you add a million dollar price on to one of their heads, the thrill of the chase is so much sweeter for anglers fishing Australia’s Top End.

The Territory has the largest numbers of Barramundi in *Baitcaster: These reels have a fixed spool underneath the whole of Australia so time out chasing Barra for fun the rod, and line is drawn out by the weight of the lure, becomes a ‘reel’ family adventure from Darwin to Kakadu, bait, or tackle. Katherine to the Tiwi Islands and in Arnhem Land. These shiny silver slabs (another local nickname) are prone to 2. Lure to a kill! leaping out of the water and taunting the recreational anglers who come out in force during the season chasing Barramundi are a very lazy fish at the best of times and the thrill of bagging a big one or THE big one – the Million down-right stubborn and moody at their worst. With this Dollar Barramundi. in mind, lure depth and presentation is paramount over any other variable, including colour. While the fish vary in colour, there’s no mistaking their pointed head - complete with concave forehead - and Those in the know say you’d be much better off to be the large jaw and, in these parts, a good sized Barramundi bouncing the right depth but ‘wrong’ colour lure over the can weigh between 10 and 20kg and reach lengths of target structure than aimlessly pulling in a lure that might over a metre. look the part, but is not reaching its target.

With a cool million bucks up for grabs in Tourism Northern This is why most serious Top End fishos will have a Territory’s Million Dollar Fish promotion, locals are selection of the same or very visually similar lures, but in understandably a little cagey a bit revealing their sweet different depth selections, to suit the tide or location you fishing spots, but they don’t mind sharing a tip or two to are targeting. help fellow fishos bag a big one! Local tip: If you’re trolling or flicking at structure and NOT 1. Don’t skimp on the basics hitting it with your lure presentation, you are really wasting your time. Quality equipment is essential in the tropics with the harsh environment and hard-core sport fish – think bass fishing 3. Any more laidback and you’d be at the pub on steroids while standing on the surface of the sun and you’d be close! If laid back bait fishing is more your style, try floating out a Barra Lolly (a small pop-eye mullet) on a decent sized Although there has been a slow gradual movement circle hook. towards lighter line and rod choices in recent years, in the Top End the de rigueur Barramundi fishing outfit still This particular technique requires the use of a cast net to consists of a strong, up-spec, baitcaster* teamed with help collect your mullet from along our coastline; this will a quality and powerful overhead rod. You will fit 150 help you avoid gut hooking any undersized fish. yards of 30lb braided line quite easily on most modern baitcasters and this should be considered the minimum. For the uninitiated, 150 yards of line might sound like overkill but it is definitely one of those items you don’t www.milliondollarfish.com.au want to run out of mid-fight.

2018 / 2019 EDITION 51 FEATURE FISHING stress-free and you can really get amongst it. It’s intimate, You’re making no interruption, no noise, with the stealth approach as well, its perfect for fishing. A bit like stand- Passion For Fishing ups as well. We’ve got three of those and just love being with International Cricket Legend, Matt Hayden on top of the water. It’s brilliant. “

Can you tell us a bit about growing up and where you’re fishing love began?

“During school holidays, because Mum was a teacher and Dad being a farmer, life was pretty flexible. Around school holidays we`d always disappear somewhere. If we weren’t on holidays away, we would be on Boondooma dam or the Bjelke-Peterson dam, which were both pretty close to home. That was in the early days of stocking as well. They had probably only been stocked for four or five years. So, with bass, silver perch and yellow belly and other freshwater species that are that are all found on our East Coast. “

“So, I mean that was a bit of an entry point to fishing. My grandma and pop would go to Hervey Bay through the winter months to escape the cold weather in Kingaroy and then based themselves there. We would visit often and had a little 16-foot 16C Haynes Hunter which my brother and I when he was five years old, would just disappear on over to Fraser Island.

We would just cruise off anywhere from Moon Creek right up to the top end pass to Wathumba Creek. I’ve got to say maybe we had a blessed childhood, you know. We surfing and fishing communities that I connected a whole wouldn’t take much. A bit of orange juice, cereal, tents, a lot deeper to than Cricket itself”. speargun and a fishing rod and we’re away!!” Matt’s love of fishing and the ocean and water, in general, “We`d hire kayaks and take them out. Those reefs would has taken him on an exciting path since retiring from hold fish like mackerel and hold schoolies, and spotties cricket. He says that everything he does now is to provide and the odd bigger catch as well. So, it was a dream his kids; Grace, Joshie and Tommy with the abundances childhood! of opportunities and skillsets that he was given a chance to discover as a child. He says that as a dad he wants to Matt Grew up in the Queensland town of Kingaroy and “I also had two uncles who were Parish priests that lived show his kids what it was like when he was a kid. “ had great access to creeks, rivers and dams where he spent in far North Queensland; living in the Cairns Diocese. At Matt Hayden is best-known for his a large portion of his childhood. He was very active and any particular time, one of them could be in Cooktown, “Back then, it wasn’t necessarily cool to be a fisherman, frequently involved himself in swimming, surfing, cycling, the other one in Cairns or Gordonvale, or Ravenshoe, but it was just something you just did. For me, the water time as an international cricketing camping, boating, fishing, shooting, skiing, scuba diving, anywhere in that tropic North Zone, which put us on gives you purpose, and it gives you such a strong focus, legend. His cricketing career kayaking, and every kind of sport you can imagine. But breeding grounds of anything from Big Red Emperor to you know it doesn’t take long before your vocabulary spanned fifteen years and is one his biggest passion lies at the end of a fishing line and spearing crayfish on the islands. My brother lives in the becomes wind, tide, moon phase, swell direction, and being on the water. Greater Palm Group of islands currently and has done that’s what you talk about all day.” of the best left-handed opening since ninety-four. You know, I don’t think we’re ever going batsmen the world has ever seen. Paddling is something that he says he does a lot of with to see him again.” “I’ve now also launched in conjunction with another his kids and whether they are in, on or around the water, philanthropic partner (Guy Reynolds) down in Sydney, they are stoked. “So, I have a very long and deep connection to the ocean, and we’ve launched the Junior Indigenous Marine But Matt Hayden is far more and as such have developed the skill sets that enable you Environmental Cadets Program.” than just an ex-cricketer. He is a “It doesn’t matter really how we get it. We are looking for to enjoy it. Being on it, to being in small craft to larger businessman, he is a philanthropist, in any way we can.” craft and especially being in it. All of us, (my family) are The program educates students about long-term accredited divers. We’ve always loved surfing as a family, sustainability to preserve and protect their waterways. he is charitable, and he is, more To begin with, Matt tells us a bit about how his family which leads the connection to what it is like to be in and At the start of our program, they had a seven-million- importantly, one of the most choose to be connected with the ocean. around the water, and of course, fishing is always part of dollar school, that had thirty kids attending just thirty per passionate fishermen you could that story. “ cent of the time. Currently, the school is now at eighty- “We have based ourselves at Amity Point at Straddie six per cent occupancy with waiting lists out the door to ever meet. (Stradbroke Island), and we have such good variety of “This is going to sound terrible for cricket, but cricket join the school. location and on-water opportunities. For us, I think always kind of got in the way of a good tour.” kayaks are probably the best because you’re absolutely “We’ve got thirty-two kids now, fully funded, for the next “Some of the locations that we went to, it was more the 52 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 53 FEATURE FISHING two years that are going to be going through our guide passed away about seven years ago, and he was the boys’ program. These kids are amazing, you know, they`ve come founder of Shimano Group Australasia. “ from disadvantaged backgrounds, a lot of them and, and now they’re going to end up going through our course “He was running sales conferences up there, and we with licenses, dive accreditation and a whole bunch of just happened to be playing a game up there against industry skill sets through our program.” Bangladesh or Sri Lanka, can’t remember in the early 2000s. He invited us out there, and we took over the joint “I’ve somehow managed to turn a passion into a vocation, for a day, and I vowed to JD that we would go back up and it feels good! These on water experiences, whether there again, which we did. We hung out at Tiwi Island it’s with a rod in hand or behind the wheel or anything in Adventures. At the time Tiwi Island Adventures was the water, it doesn’t matter. It changes lives.” cutting edge Back then it was glamping, but it turned into something a whole lot more special.” For the first time just two weeks ago we were up there and one of the kids that’s come through our program, Anthony Tiwi Islands, Johnson River & Bathurst Island Guy, is now full-time employed as an indigenous guide that works for Tiwi Island Adventures. Anthony is one of “We were sitting on our boats on the water, a few different those individuals that loves the water, is a great storyteller locations on the Johnson River camp and Bathurst Island seeing and living on his country as a proud Tiwi individual which was the old Barra base. Whether it’s onshore or particular community. I’ve built a home ground there. “ something you love, and get a million bucks.” and he’s sharing that with the rest of the world, for anyone offshore fishing, that place is just unbelievable. You can that comes to that community. be smashing GT’s, Spanish mackerel, Goldie’s and black “I spent a lot of time with Matty Wright in other regions in “It’s cracking tournament where they’ve started bold, but jewies in the morning and then you can go back in and get the north., which is always a hoot, and we’ve gone down that didn’t include the runoff, and I think that’s been a So, speaking of your time in the remote communities with a big Barra, Mangrove Jack and Saratoga in the afternoon. the Litchfield. I’ve done a bit of runoff Barra Fishing as well good extension to this year’s tournament. When you know your fishing up there where is your favourite spot to fish You have these epic days, and then you come back off the with him, which is just second to none. Sitting on those the North like we do we know that once it starts running in those areas? water and sit and overlook Snake Bay, pinch yourself about little inland rivers and catching little black Barra until you and those fish which are in, ten litres of water all of a the day you just had, while you tuck into a few cold ones. can’t stand up anymore. It’s just great fun.” sudden are in 1 billion litres of water and they could be “Well, as you know those locations have endless opportunity anywhere. We’re exposing the dry season, so it’s more big country, and a big Coastline, and the variety of world- It’s an extraordinary place. Not to mention what the Tiwi “But up there, it can also be in famine as well. And when it concentrated in the runoff.” class experiences in extraordinary untouched, pristine people represent, with their magnificent ancient culture is famine, when the tides aren’t right, and it’s hot, you’ve wilderness areas. A lot of the areas are still like that. Even that they so desperately want to be preserved,” Matt says. got a whole host of other things you have to go through. “It’s just the people’s fishing competition. I guess that’s going back to where I spend a lot of time in Hervey Bay. It is so magnificent because they have these tremendous Barra isn’t it, you can catch it from land, you can catch it Back then it was virtually untouched. “ “For us, it’s just been such an incredible place. Especially for different seasons as well. It’s a dramatic place no matter from a kayak or a SUP, and you can catch it from the boat. my learnings and appreciation for not only the magnificent when you go there, but my favourite time up there is “We wouldn’t see another boat on Fraser Island, and we estuarine fishing opportunities but also offshore fishing the wet season. When you get those bloody enormous Last year it contributed eight million dollars to the would be there for a couple of weeks. We’d hang out at opportunities. But, also then how that integrates back Hercules cloud formations, they look like an atomic bomb Northern Territory, just from the fishing enthusiasts buying Moon Creek, and that’d be it. We’d pump for yabbies, or into a community of people and its ancient traditions and going off all over the place, and you can see the lightning, bait tackle, using their boats, and paying for fuel. We all you’d spear Mangrove Jack. It was just remote, and that’s cultures. It’s just extraordinary, you know like, you could and everything comes to life. invest in that sort of stuff, because, you know you spend a the point. “ write movies on the place.” hundred bucks on that and you could get a million bucks Million Dollar Fish Ambassador in return. And because you have these epic journeys, you “I’ve spent a lot of time now up in the Tiwi Islands, and “It’s an amazing destination full stop. Rather than spread go holy shit it is all worthwhile.” initially I was up there because of John Dunphy before he me all over the top end. I’m focused heavily on that Matt is The Million Dollar Fish Campaign ambassador. The Million Dollar Fish is a competition with more than To wrap it up, Matt explained how he loves fishing simply $2,000,000 of prizes, featuring 125 tagged fish including because of the common purpose that anyone who is five fish that have been tagged with a $1,000,000 price tag. passionate about fishing feels.

Being ambassador for a fishing comp like this, I forget that “I love being around my family and mates. I enjoy that I have a profile and maybe that’s just a great thing because social time and the element of having a common purpose. I consider that I’m just like everyone else. The reason why Sitting on a kayak or floating on a SUP and just being an I go to the north is to spend time with my mates, to spend observer of the miracle of the environment. Whether you time with my kids, to get back to something where I know I are on a reef or estuary or tidal planes, there has always can change people’s lives. That’s why it was considered by been a big fascination and a deep sense of contentment the NT government that have now registered our charity and connection, and it’s always driven my non-competitive as one of the official charities of the Million Dollar Fish. side.” So, of the purple tags of the three charities, ours is one of them “That competitive side of me is such a real thing (and to be honest I’m sort of just over him). That was a huge “We created a web series show, a ‘catch and cook’ series element of my life, but cricket always got in the way of my and we have a lot of fun doing that. It’s a short digital real passion. I love cricket, I respect and admire it, but now piece, to whet the appetite for the Million Dollar Fish there is so much more, so many beautiful relationships in comp. I’ve always believed that it could be the biggest these other things I have mentioned. “ fishing tournament in the world. What other competition in the world can give you an opportunity to catch five- www.juniorguides.com.au million-dollar fish? You can simply cast a line out, doing www.milliondollarfish.com.au

54 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 55 Torqeedo electric outboard motors - The leader in electric boat drives

Power Equipment New Zealand unveiled Torqeedo, day in September 26th. They were the: developer of the world’s leading electric marine propulsion systems, to marine journalists and members of the boating, Ultralight (1 hp equivalent) ideal for kayaks and canoes; fishing and sailing sectors. The day featured on-water demonstrations of electric outboard motors from across Travel (1.5 hp and 3 hp equivalent) suited to dinghies, the Torqeedo range. tenders and smaller yachts; ADVERTORIAL German company Torqeedo is a pioneer in electric Cruise (5 hp, 8 hp and 20 hp equivalent) for motorboats propulsion for watercraft. Since it began in 2005, Torqeedo and sailboats. These innovative motors are suitable for has developed a line-up of safe, environmentally-friendly both marine and freshwater applications. They are low electric outboards to suit recreational and professional maintenance and provide long-term savings on fuel and boats. It offers outboards, pods and inboard electric servicing costs. Available in outboard configuration with motors either as full electric or hybrid drive systems that either tiller or remote steering, and fixed pod drive. extend from 1 hp up to 80 hp. Having had great success throughout Australia and Power Equipment became the exclusive distribution the South Pacific with both recreational and multiple of Torqeedo motors in Australia, New Zealand and the commercial operators, Power Equipment now has its South Pacific three years ago. It did so because Torqeedo sights set on increasing public awareness of the benefits represents the preeminent brand in electric propulsion. Torqeedo motors offer and expanding the brand’s dealer They have a focus on quality and continual development network in New Zealand. of superior technology products. This makes it a good fit in Power Equipment’s portfolio of leading global marine Martin says Torqeedo motors are currently available from propulsion systems, which includes Yanmar and John about four retailers around New Zealand. They include Deere. Absolute Marine in Auckland, Mahurangi Marine in Mahurangi, JB Marine in Opua, and Mainland Marine in To achieve high quality and class leading efficiency and Christchurch. range, Torqeedo integrates the latest technology into its motors and carefully optimises and aligns all components “We are looking to grow our existing dealer network. Most of the drive train. of our current dealers are in the North Island, and we certainly believe there is scope to expand in the South Power Equipment NZ’s national product support manager, Island in areas such as the Marlborough Sounds.” Martin Cook, says eco-friendly Torqeedo motors are ideal for New Zealand because electric drive systems Hosting the event was Power Equipment’s New Zealand cause no water pollution. Unlike conventional internal staff as well as the PE group General Manager Luke Foster combustion engines, there is no exhaust and no risk of and Torqeedo Product Manager Jason Hodder from the water contamination from leaking or spilled fuel or oil. company’s head office in Melbourne.

“Electric motors are safer because there is no need to carry Jason says Torqeedo’s technology represents an important fuel on board the boat. They also offer a more pleasant shift in the future of boat propulsion, equivalent to the experience to passengers on the water because there is shift that electric vehicles are bringing to road transport. no noise or exhaust fumes,” Martin says. Power Equipment is the exclusive Australian and New “Torqeedo motors are a premium product. They use light Zealand distributor of the Torqeedo range including weight lithium batteries that have some of the highest Ultralight, Travel, Cruise and Deep Blue. power densities in the industry, drawing the technology from the automotive industry through partnership with BMW.

The six-tier safety system used by Torqeedo for its lithium batteries includes safe battery chemistry, safe packaging of individual battery cells, and compliance with the waterproof IP67 standard.

Martin says fully-charged Torqeedo lithium batteries will run for 8-10 hours at low throttle. Standard equipment with Torqeedo engines is an on-board computer with a range monitor that tells you how much further you can go with the current battery life.

Power Equipment demonstrated three models at its open

56 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 57 FEATURE FISHING

Starting at the bow, I’d recommend bungee lashings, or Rigging A Kayak For “bungee trees” as they’re usually called. These serve as a paddle holder and allow you to stow your paddle in an instant, a handy feature to have when you get a strike. My Serious Sport Fishing kayak is equipped with bungee trees on the bow and in the cockpit the latter which conveniently holds my tackle box right in front of me.

If you’re thinking positive (and you should be!) you need to have something to land and store your catch. For smaller fish a landing net will do and for larger fish a gaff would be more appropriate. Some folks keep a catch bag in their hull which requires opening up the hatch to place their catch into the bag. My preference is an insulated bag which I store in the rear tank-well. This setup is very different from our mainland counterparts most of whom tend to utilize the aft space on their kayaks for storing crates with rod- holders and/or live bait buckets.

Kayak fishing in Hawaii involves quite simply, bottom- fishing, trolling, whipping (bait-casting), or jigging. I do very little bottom fishing or whipping (casting) from my and rod went right into the water, thankfully, only as far kayak as I really enjoy the constant movement that trolling as the safety line. offers, not to mention the simplicity of rig that we use! Tackle Box & Landing Tackle In setting up for bottom fishing, whipping, and jigging there really is no special set-up as all that you really need My preference is to keep things as simple as possible and is a floating platform from which to deploy your line. It’s the size of my tackle box (about 5”x 8”) probably reflects a good idea to get a drift chute which can significantly that. All of my lures and pre-set leaders are stored in this reduce your drift while doing any of these stationary small waterproof box that’s strapped into the bungee fishing methods. I rig a bridle, formed by joining the cords right in front of me. A long nose pliers hangs off bowline and a line fastened behind me, that holds the the side of my seat so I don’t have to go fumbling for it chute amidships so it holds my kayak perpendicular to when I’ve got a twenty pound fish struggling in my lap or the direction of the current or wind, whichever might be thrashing about on the side of the kayak. pushing me away from the area I’d like to remain in. Depending on where we’re fishing, I would either have a Rod Holders – In Front or Behind? gaff or landing net and, often, I’ll stick them in the extra You can go fishing on any old As in fishing from a boat, kayak fishing comprises a wide rod holder for convenience. kayak, but true kayak sportfishing spectrum of different techniques, gear, and rigs reflecting For trolling, my rod holders are set up in the front of the the method of fishing as well as the personal preferences cockpit. This is probably the biggest difference from many Fishfinders & VHS Radios can benefit greatly from some of the angler. Due to the rapid popularity that kayak of our mainland kayak fishing colleagues who seem to additional preparation. Here are fishing has experienced in recent years, many kayak prefer placing their rod holders in back of their seats. I An increasing number of fishing kayaks are being rigged some of the preferences for rigging manufacturers offer specially-equipped “fishing models” prefer being able to watch the tip of my pole as I’m trolling with fishfinders that are water-resistant and very well- featuring built-in rod holders, compartments, and layouts as frequently, smaller fish will shred the bait without taking suited to kayak fishing needs. One of our buddies has a a fishing kayak from anglers in especially suited to the kayak angler. pulling on the line for the ratchet to sound. When a fish fishfinder on his kayak and he swears by it! You can choose Hawaii! does hit, the transition from paddling to setting the hook from a portable fishfinder that allows for the needed For starters, the most popular fishing kayaks are those with is one smooth transition as I quickly place the paddle in transducer to be mounted with a suction cup or doing a Setting up for kayak fishing really allows a forward compartment for dry storage and a rear tank- the bow lashing then grab my rod. permanent mount that requires epoxying the transducer well, or deck recess, that allows for placement of tackle to the hull. As of yet, I haven’t outfitted my kayak with a you to enjoy the sport to its fullest. There’s equipment like a crate with rod holders, bait tanks, or fish When placing your rod holders in front of you, be sure to fishfinder but I’m getting awfully tempted! an understandable joy in hooking into bags. My kayak is an Ocean Kayak Scupper Pro TW. check your maximum forward extension when paddling a great fish and having everything you so as to assure you won’t hit the rod holders or rods when Of course, while we’re on the subject of electronics, a Rudder or No-Rudder? stretching forward in your stroke. good investment would also be a VHS two-way-radio so need from secure rod holders to landing you have both boat to boat and coast guard emergency equipment and storage right at your The jury is out on the necessity for a rudder but I find a Wherever you decide to place your rod holders, be sure channel access. Submersible handheld VHS radios are fingertips. Making your kayak such a rudder invaluable when trying to paddle against adverse to include a safety line to your reels to prevent losing available nowadays. Take some time to set up your kayak winds or currents. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoy working them in the event you capsize or if the rod holders should and when the day comes when you get the strike of joy to fish from takes a bit of planning my rudder to “follow” the fish as I’m fighting it… and they fail. On three occasions (I’d rather not talk about how…) I your life , all the little details will pay off in making your but goes a long way in making your will pull you! Despite the potential for snagging my line flipped my kayak and, if not for the safety lines would have experience the all that it should be. experience a positive one! on the rudder, the benefit of increased efficiency when lost my favorite Penn Reel and rod! On another occasion, conditions worsen well outweighs the negatives for having insufficiently tightened the nut on my rod holder, The author, Richard Young, is an avid kayak fisherman in Hawaii and installing a rudder. my entire rod holder gave way when a fish hit and my reel features Kayak Fishing on his website, Hawaiibeachcombers.com.

58 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 59 Satellite Communications and Navigational tools during your travels

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There are a few different choices out there when it comes UHF radios are a great way for communication at short to satellite phones, and like mobile phones, coverage is distances as they work on line of sight. Travelling across key. Australia it is crucial that you have a set of these whether it be in a convoy, needing that extra help to park your caravan Iridium Extreme® 9575 or simply just communication around the campsite. They are a low-cost option with no set up fees or ongoing costs. This phone is built for the toughest of conditions, it has lots of features and accessories like real time tracking, GPS Cel Fi enabled, SOS emergency distress at no additional charge. Mobile boosters and repeaters will allow you to boost Iridium 9555 your mobile signal, giving you more mobile reception when travelling between towns keeping you safer and If you need a satellite phone to have in your caravan for better connected. that peace of mind, but do not need all the extra features that the Extreme® offers, an Iridium 9555 satellite phone ACR is designed to go easily wherever you go. PLBS send out a distress signal when activated and are Iridium GO! small, lightweight and are a very low-cost solution. No set up costs or ongoing fees. For those who can’t bear to be without their smartphones. The Iridium GO! is a compact and portable, yet rugged Goal Zero satellite backed Wi-Fi hotspot. Just download the free Iridium GO! app and you can turn your smart phone into Solar Chargers are a must have traveling and need to a satellite phone. charge phones, laptops, tablets or even a camera

A range of communication, navigational and safety SatPhone Shop have a large range of AeroHealth first aid products all in the one shop! kits and HeartSine defibrillators available in a variety of cases for any situation. We also offer specialized snake At SatPhone Shop we’re not only about satellite phones, and spider bite kits. we have expanded our range to include further safety products, for your peace of mind. SatPhone Shop’s foundation is built on having some of the best employees in the industry, with years of satellite Garmin telecommunication experience, from sales and marketing right across to engineering and excellent customer GPS handheld units are compact, durable and most often support. waterproof which make them great for any weather condition or situation. Let us assist you with your satellite communication and safety needs, call now on 1300 368 611.

2018 / 2019 EDITION 61 Sip vs Drink

Bob Cooper was born and resides in WA. He has been products. The wastes are mainly bacterium, potassium, conducting Bush Survival courses now throughout nitrogen and sodium. Australia and overseas for three decades now, he was also a professional diver, conducted canoeing and white All doctors and medicos I have consulted suggest: not to water rafting ventures for a number of years before retiring drink your own urine as the recycling of waste materials from those to pursue his passion of wilderness survival concentrates in your kidneys and can lead to total kidney techniques. He is the author of best-selling book “Outback damage – the effects on your kidneys has been favourably

ADVERTORIAL Survival” compared to you drinking sea water.

A large part of his survival teaching is to understand and By drinking urine any bacteria your body has just cleansed prevent the effects of dehydration on our minds and out and then rejected will be returned to your body and bodies; Bob shares his knowledge and thoughts about strengthen the existing unwanted bacteria your body is water consumption with us. trying to rid itself of.

“While paddling most people now use some type of If your body is very healthy and free from infectious pop-up bottle or a “camel back” water carrier with a tube bacteria you can drink urine on day one of a survival straw to drink from, these are practical and fine to use but situation, but advised to do so mixed with drinking water you must drink from the supply not just sip, why? and done while you are still reasonably hydrated, this has been done in extreme cases of persons being stranded Because we should know and understand that sipping with a dwindling water supply. water does not prevent dehydration anywhere anytime. Knowing this is a major factor in preventing an unwelcomed Once the urine has left your body it can start to ferment medical concern, which could ruin your excursion. and breed bacteria in its own solution, notice on latest survival type reality episodes they get the participants to When you feel thirsty you are already 2 to 3% dehydrated urine into a bottle on day one, then have their samples boiled to purify them, then serve it up a few days later – Your body requires a minimum of a cupful (250mills) of purely for “entertaining viewing”. water each time you drink. This is important because drinking any less will mean the other organs in our body Once you are already badly dehydrated do not drink any will “steal” it for themselves in their own “survival mode”. urine, because it will have a heavier concentrate of waste Therefore robbing the brain of its fair-share and necessary products and less water. water supply to keep functioning properly. This will lead to headaches, nausea, poor decision making, and irrational Another question: Can you drink too much water? thinking this also diminishes your cognitive abilities. It is very rare for someone to suffer from drinking too Ongoing dehydration a person can deteriorate to a much water, but it can happen. This over-hydrating is condition known as dehydration dementia, increasing the most common amongst elite marathon and triathlon chances of making substantial errors, this has happened athletes, the excess consumption of water, is called water in several situations in our outback and the dehydrated intoxication or hyponatremia. decisions some people made, sadly lead to their demise. This excess water dilutes the concentration of sodium First comes thirst then the colour of your urine gets darker, and overwhelms the kidneys’ ability function properly; or worse, you lose the need to urinate, you are really your body’s water levels increase and your cells begin dehydrating and you need to drink more. Once again, to swell. This swelling can cause many health concerns, drink in cupful’s at a time, not sips. You may sip the cupful these can be mild to life-threatening. To avoid this, govern but consume it at the rate you would drink a cup of tea your input of water to balance your output of perspiration or coffee. and respiration, add electrolytes into your drinking fluids during these extreme exercise events. If you are unsure your companions are dehydrating or not, start by asking about their urine output and compare Water is medicine for your body, start hydrated, stay theirs to your hydrated frequency. hydrated, finish hydrated”.

No matter what your size, age, shape, or fitness level, an Safe travels! adult person should urinate out at least one litre of semi clear fluid per day. I have planned frequent scheduled compulsory drink stops, on excursions.

A survival question I get asked a lot, “Can you drink your own urine”?

Drinking Urine,” Yes you can and no you can’t”. This is why it is confusing. Urine is 95% water and 5% waste

62 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 63 64 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 65 ARNHEM LAND

Arnhem Land can only be visited with a permit obtained from the Northern Land Council; however, there are several reputable fishing lodges, fishing safari camps and mothership operations which offer professionally- TRAVEL guide fishing and will make all your permit arrangements.

Check to make sure that your chosen destination has quality tackle for you to use. It’s fun having your own lures, so ask beforehand for a basic BAGGING THE MILLION DOLLAR BARRA selection of what you should bring. The months of October, November and December are As with Arnhem Land, the Tiwi Islands can referred to as the Build-up and the Barra fishing only be visited after obtaining a permit, in this Alex Julius was age 24 when he first arrived in Darwin and is now one of Australia’s best-known can be exceptional, so this is a great time to case from the Tiwi Land Council. Once again, fishing media identities and arguably the nation’s foremost authority on fishing tropical North plan your Arnhem Land Barra fishing adventure. there are reputable fishing lodges which offer Australia. If you’re fishing the territory, these are the tips you’ll need to know if you want to bag the Million Dollar Barra. professionally-guide fishing and will make all Always listen to and take advice from your your permit arrangements. Check to make sure guide as he will have the experience, knowledge that your chosen destination has quality tackle and skill to maximise your Barra fishing for you to use. opportunities. Don’t be afraid to ask your guide DARWIN REGION about anything you need to know – including It’s fun having your own lures, so ask beforehand techniques – to improve your Barra fishing for a basic selection of what you should bring. Visit your local tackle store to find out where the Barra are biting. If you intend to fish for Barra in success. places like Darwin Harbour or Bynoe Harbour, fish across low tides between 1m and 2m high. On The months of October, November and December are referred to as the Build-up and neap tides when there is not much tidal movement, try popular inland waterways like Corroboree The township of Nhulunbuy in north-east Billabong on the Mary River system or Yellow Water Lagoon in Kakadu National park. the Barra fishing can be exceptional, so this is Arnhem Land is readily accessed by permit a great time to plan your Arnhem Land Barra obtained from the Northern Land Council and fishing adventure. Always listen to and take There are several major tidal rivers that can be accessed for a day or extended Barramundi fishing there is good Barramundi fishing in the creeks trip out of Darwin, including: Adelaide River, Mary River, Finniss River and Daly River. advice from your guide as he will have the and estuaries inside Gove Harbour. experience, knowledge and skill to maximise your Barra fishing opportunities. If you’re unfamiliar with fishing for Barramundi, engage a professional fishing tour operator for TIWI ISLANDS at least one day so you can get the hang of it. In the estuaries, fish with small shallow-running minnow-style lures or prawn-imitation soft plastics.

Keep an eye out for small baitfish as Barramundi will often be found where there is available food.

66 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE 2018 / 2019 EDITION 67 Some of the southern end of the Tiwi Islands KAKADU NATIONAL PARK can be visited by boat and fished under special arrangements in place. For current Interstate visitors require a permit to visit arrangements, contact the Amateur Fishermen’s Kakadu National Park. If you’re visiting Kakadu Association NT (AFANT) on (08)89456455. in October/November/December, focus your Barra fishing on inland waterways with road KATHERINE REGION access still open. If you’re visiting Kakadu once the wet season has started (generally January/ The town of Katherine is the gateway to the February), there may be the opportunity to Victoria and Roper Rivers, as well as those rivers experience runoff fishing at the South Alligator in the lower Gulf of Carpentaria, including the River or even the East Alligator River. If you’re McArthur River. Also, the Daly River is roughly unfamiliar with fishing for Barramundi, engage halfway between Katherine and Darwin. Your a professional fishing tour operator for at least first port of call should be one of the tackle one day so you can get the hang of it. stores in Katherine to get the latest intel on where to try your luck for a Barra and how to Keep an eye out for small baitfish as Barramundi go about it. Although most Barra fishing is with will often be found where there is available artificial lures, in both the Roper and Daly Rivers, food. Once the wet season gets under way, cherabin (freshwater prawn) is great Barra bait the Nourlangie Creek bridges on the Kakadu and can be caught in special small traps that Highway can provide great Barra action fishing you can purchase at any NT tackle store. from the roadside. Staff at Darwin and Katherine tackle shops will be able to bring you up to If you’re unfamiliar with fishing for Barramundi, date on Barramundi fishing in Kakadu at any engage a professional fishing tour operator for particular time. at least one day so you can get the hang of it. Water clarity is important for success in the big tidal rivers of the Katherine region. Generally, the upper tidal reaches of the rivers have good water clarity, but further downstream neap (small, slow-moving) tides are when water clarity is at its best. Keep an eye out for small baitfish as Barramundi will often be found where there is available food.

68 BLADE PADDLE CULTURE MAGAZINE

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