The review of PaddleNSW strategies and operations has been progressing thanks to the working group led by Peter McIntyre. The draft report will shortly be made available for review by our PNSW Paddlesport and sub-committee Chairs. Club Executives will be involved at the next quarterly forum. The final report will be circulated prior to the AGM.
That Annual General Meeting shall be conducted online on Thursday, 14th September, commencing at 7:30pm. As we do each year, we call for nominations from anyone interested in joining the PNSW Board. Please contact the office if interested.
Although featured in other articles this newsletter, we pay special tribute to PNSW Indigenous Advisor Darren Forbes. With significant assistance from Annette Mathews they arranged a fantastic inaugural First Nations awareness round at the Woronora marathon hosted by Sutherland Shire Canoe Club on 24th June.
These awareness rounds shared between the PNSW Harbour, Marathon and Sprint Series shall become regular calendar events as we embrace the diversity of water enthusiasts. Apart from First Nations paddlers, we will also welcome the inclusivity of LGBTQ+ paddlers (rainbow round), plus our members for which English is not their strongest language (multi-cultural round).
NSW Canoe Association was formed on 8th September 1949 to enable the foundation of our national body in preparation for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Although a change in legal name and entity occurred in 2008, in essence PaddleNSW remains the state peak body with similar values and objectives established last century – ie to advance and promote canoeing, kayaking and paddling activity throughout NSW and ACT.
For the mathematicians amongst us, you will realise we are fast approaching a 75th birthday as a state sporting organisation. With only 14 months before the candles are blown out, PaddleNSW calls for members and enthusiasts interested in forming an “ideas group” to provide celebration recommendations. Please contact the office if you are inspired.
Congratulations to Mike Mackney (Bonville Creek Kayak Club) as a recipient of a Distinguished Long Service Award at the Sport NSW Community Sports Awards held at Parramatta on 29th June. It was marvellous for Kiaran Lomas (Volunteer Director) and Darren Forbes(Community Official) to also receive recognition as Finalists in their respective categories. As a small organisation, we do well on the broader sport platform in competition with the winter codes, cricket, netball, etc.
On behalf of the Board – be safe and enjoy yourselves on the water.
Peter Tate
Chief Executive Officer
PaddleNSW