Read the full Noosa Outrigger Canoe Risk Management plan here

Swim / Tread Water Testing

As required by AOCRA, Noosa Outrigger Canoe Club will conduct annual 400m swim tests and tread water tests for all current and new paddlers. If you are unable to complete the tests, you will be required to wear a PFD while paddling until you have demonstrated your improved skills.

 

PFDs

All club members must have a PFD with them when paddling any outrigger craft – OC6, OC2 and OC1 and PFDs must be worn with all Noosa bar crossings whilst in an OC6. The rationale for the mandatory wearing of PFDs during bar crossings can be read here. It is each paddler’s responsibility to comply. While the club does have a number of PFDs, these are reserved for Come and Try sessions and it is expected that all new members purchase their own PFDs as soon as possible after joining.

 

Leg Ropes

All club members must have a leg rope fitted to the canoe and their body when paddling OC1s and OC2s. The club committee fully endorses the AOCRA requirement. It is each paddler’s responsibility to comply.

 

Huli / Flip Recovery

A ‘huli’ can happen at any time with little or no warning. A huli is very common and can happen during a practice or a race. To ensure the safety of paddlers, an annual Huli practice drill is conducted along with swim and tread water tests.

A coach will explain the Huli drill prior to the canoe entering the watering then a practical ‘flip’ is carried out. The drill is conducted each season to ensure every paddler understands their role in the case of a real ‘flip’.

 

When not in a Canoe

ALWAYS be careful to not stand on the beach side of a canoe that is parallel to the beach as the smallest of waves can push the canoe onto you causing you to fall, injure yourself or even break your leg. Similarly, if you Huli in choppy waters make sure you get to the wave side of the canoe to ensure the canoe is not pushed onto you, causing injury.

 

Sun Protection

Paddling involves long periods of time exposed to the elements and appropriate sun protection should be used including, hats, sun cream, long sleeved sun shirts and sun glasses.

 

Hydration

Another part of being in the sun for long periods is the risk of dehydration from over exposure. Suitable water bottles or back packs should be taken and used during long paddles. For new paddlers, frequent stops should be built into the training session by the coach.