Well it was a beautiful sunny, hot weekend for our Women in Kayaking, (WIKS) program held on the 7th/8th February 2009. With the forecast for 30+ degrees and strong winds we held the skills day at Palm Beach at Sanctuary Point. Totally protected from the Northeaster the ladies started the day with the basics on equipment orientation and handling.
Bonnie Tregenza demonstating correct technique for lifting and carying a sea kayak .We moved through stroke techniques on the water, and while there were some nervous starters everyone quickly picked up the skills and gained their confidence quickly. With the promise of extra Carrot Cake for the first to capsize there was great commitment shown in the Sweep stroke practice session with Cate getting the honors of first one to take a swim. The rescue techniques followed in groups with everyone learning to perform a Wet exit, Assisted Rescue and Paddle Float Self Rescue. The girls dealt well with their reservations about capsizing with big smiles and lots of laughs and encouragement.
After a great first outing everyone pulled up well for our Jervis Bay Explorer Paddle the next day. With the same weather forecast we filled our kayaks with delicious morning tea and headed out from Callala Bay for a fantastic paddle to Carama Inlet and Hare Bay. Crystal Clear water and a dolphin or two gave us a brilliant morning on the water as we chatted and paddled taking in the surrounds of the Marine Park. After a relaxing stop for coffee/cake and fruit on a deserted beach we had the wind behind us for a nice ride home surfing the waves. Thankyou to Maria for "volunteering" to demonstrate a capsize in "real terms" as a sneaky gust of wind played with us near shore.
Our Next Overnight Womens Kayak Camping Trip ( WIKS In the Sticks ) is also planned for the 16th - 17th May 2009.
Cheers - Tracy Gibson JBK Training Cordinator / Sea Instructor
