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Paddle SA offers a wide range of activities and courses for all who are keen to get into paddling. Whether it’s your first experience of paddling or you’re wanting to refine skills and safety, or looking for assistance in conducting a school activity or seeking training as a guide or instructor we can help.
We offer activities using kayaks, canoes, sit on tops(SOT) and SUP boards for individuals, schools, social, business, university groups and many others. Programs are developed in consultation with participants to ensure that the activity is fun, enjoyable and delivers the desired outcomes. Activities are wide ranging in outcomes and can include simply the hire of equipment to provision of instruction at all levels as well as planning day and overnight programs.
We deliver the Paddle Australia Qualifications Scheme which is the national benchmark for paddling education in Australia. Paddle Australia is the peak body for paddle sport in Australia and is recognised by the federal government. Regular skills, safety and rescue courses are conducted as well as Flatwater and Sea Leadership Programs.
Further details on these training programs can be found in the menu to the right. The dates for these can be found in our calendar.
Paddle SA offers a wide range of courses for all skill and fitness levels. We offer training in the following components of the Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme(PAQS):
Basic Skills Award – a 6 hour introduction for people who want to learn to paddle (Canoe, Kayak , SOT (sit on top kayak) and SUP (standup paddle board).
Flatwater Skills Award – a 2 day course delivering a full range of paddle strokes and rescues. Holders of the Flat-water Skills award have demonstrated they can competently paddle as part of a group of peers on flat sheltered, undemanding water.
Paddling Supervisor Qualification – The introductory qualification for people wanting to gain employment in the industry. Holders of this qualification are qualified to manage a paddling activity in very sheltered locations where the group does not leave the immediate launch area.
Flatwater Guide Qualification – Holders of the Flatwater Guide Qualification are qualified to lead trips on inland waters such as open lakes and rivers. The Flatwater Guide is for people seeking a professional certification in flat water paddling environments. The Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry benchmark designed to meet the needs of the paddling industry in education, recreational and tourism sectors nation wide.
Flatwater Instructor Qualification – The holder of the Flatwater Instructor Qualification are qualified to instruct and facilitate skill transfer to develop participants in order so that they may act independently or with minimal supervision in controlled conditions for inland kayaking and canoeing. The Flatwater Instructor is for people seeking a professional certification in flat water paddling environments. The Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry benchmark designed to meet the needs of the paddling industry for education, recreational and tourism sectors nation wide.
Intro Sea Skills Award – The holder of this qualification has demonstrated the skills and knowledge to paddle a kayak in coastal areas and beaches close to shore where wind and waves are minimal.
Sea Skills Award – The holder of this qualification has demonstrated the skills and knowledge to paddle a sea kayak in more demanding coastal areas with larger seas and surf where landings may be difficult or open crossings may be included to a maximum of 5 nautical miles from shore.
Sea Leader Qualification – The holder of this qualification is qualified to guide groups of Sea Skills paddlers on activities in sea kayaks in sea conditions.
Sea Guide Qualification – The holder of this qualification are qualified to lead trips in sea kayaks in sea conditions. The sea Guide is for people seeking a professional certification in sea paddling environments. The Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry benchmark designed to meet the needs of the paddling industry in education, recreational and tourism sectors nation wide.
Sea Instructor Qualification – The holders of this qualification is qualified to instruct and facilitate skill transfer to develop participants in order so that they may act independently or with minimal supervision in sea kayaks in sea conditions. The Sea Instructor is for people seeking a professional certification in sea paddling environments. The Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry benchmark designed to meet the needs of the paddling industry for education, recreational and tourism sectors nation wide.
For further information on these courses please contact Paddle SA:
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
An introduction for people who wish to learn to paddle either a kayak or a canoe on inland waterways. The course programme is designed with the aim of giving you the confidence to enjoy the excitement and challenge of paddling. You will be shown and have time to practice the basic paddle strokes for moving your craft safely and efficiently. While this course is intensive, it is not physically demanding. As the course is practically oriented, most of the course time will be spent paddling and practising paddle strokes.
There will be regular breaks (so bring snacks and water)
Course content and certificate
Enrolment
PLEASE NOTE: A course will not be held if the weather forecast is for wind strength that is not safe for novice paddlers. Weather predictions become more reliable as the day of the course approaches.
Cost
Course fees include the use of a kayak, course notes and certificate, and must be paid prior to the course at the time of enrolment.
Clothing for Paddling
Always dress for the weather conditions.
In summer, that will mean light clothing (long sleeve tops to protect arms and shoulders) with adequate sun protection (sunglasses for your eyes and sunblock for your skin)
In winter clothing will include woollen or thermal clothing, wetsuits may also be worn, and don’t forget the sun protection as winter sun can damage sensitive skin and eyes
Warm weather:
Cold weather:
For further information on these courses please contact Paddle SA:
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Course Format
This 2-day training course is designed for those paddlers that seek to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills to safely and competently undertake a journey without instructor supervision.
The course is also the pre-requisite for Paddling Supervisor, Flatwater Guide and Flatwater Instructor training.
The course is designed for both beginning leaders and those with more experience. The course will include both on-water practical and off-water theory components.
Paddle SA courses held at Paddle SA, Bower Road West Lakes will commence at 0900 and conclude at 1700 or before each day.
Award Definition
Holders of the Flatwater Skills Award have demonstrated that they can competently paddle during a trip, as part of a group of peers, on flat, sheltered and/or undemanding water.
Assessment
Assessment of the award is not included in this training for experienced paddlers. Novice paddlers may require further experience and skill development prior to assessment.
Assessment includes both theory and practical components.
Theory assessment includes the presentation of the logbook and appropriate standard project that demonstrates knowledge at Flatwater Skills (preparation for a paddling journey including route plan, equipment list, contingency plan, weather interpretation).
Practical assessment requires candidates to successfully complete an introductory paddling journey demonstrating navigation, group and equipment management, safety briefing, response to an incident and debriefing.
Prior to Attending the Course
Ideally, candidates will have a minimum of 5 days paddling experience however novice paddlers are welcome to use the course for skill and knowledge development.
Preparation for the Course
Please come prepared for paddling and capsizing including sufficient warm clothing to change into after on-water sessions. You will need to provide all your personal kayaking equipment such as suitable footwear, sun protection, paddling clothing, hydration and nutrition.
A range of kayaks, canoes, buoyancy vests, paddles and spraydecks are available for courses presented at Paddle SA Bower Road at no additional charge for the duration of the course but it is highly recommended that you source your own where possible.
If you require practical assessment throughout the course you will need to ensure you have equipment suitable for a journey such as a tow line, first aid, waterproofed communication device, whistle, waterproof bags with spare clothing, paddle leash, etc. Alternatively, these items can be presented at a separate assessment date with most items able to be loaned during the training course.
If you require theory assessment throughout the course you will need to submit your Flatwater Skills theory projects prior to the course (7 days minimum). Alternatively, these can be presented up to 6 weeks following completion of the training program. For further details see http://paddle.org.au/education-safety/flatwater-awards/#FW-Skills.
Paddle Australia now prefers electronic records and assessment. It will be helpful if you could download both ‘Paddle Prep’ and ‘Paddle Log’ apps available on both Android and Itunes to your smartphone or other device and be familiar with these resources.
Course Content
The course format is subject to change (due to changing weather conditions or at the discretion of course staff). The most common training format is 50% on-water and 50% off-water (classroom).
Flatwater skills include instruction in the following:
Prepare craft and equipment for paddling
Secure craft for transport
Launch and land
Perform paddle strokes including but not limited to forward and reverse, draw, stern rudder, stopping and support strokes
Wet exit
Rescue
Tow and be towed
Basic knots
Safety including communication and incident response
Navigate
Interpret weather
Plan a paddling activity
Minimal impact
Maintain a log book demonstrating at least 5 paddling experiences
Undertake a short independent paddle journey
For further information on these courses please contact Paddle SA:
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Course Format
This 2-day training course is a stand-alone program or forms the first 2 days of the Guide and Instructor training program. The aim of the course is to prepare you for assessment at the award level of Flatwater Supervisor.
The course is designed for both beginning leaders and those with more experience. The course will include both on-water practical and off-water theory components.
Paddle SA courses held at Paddle SA, Bower Road West Lakes will commence at 0900 and conclude at 1700 or before each day.
Award Definition
Holders of the Paddling Supervisor are qualified to manage a paddling activity in enclosed situations, performing rescues as required, where the group under supervision can be seen from a single vantage point at any time and does not leave the immediate launch area.
Assessment
Assessment of the award is not included in this training however can be undertaken as part of the complete 5-day Flatwater Instructor training. Alternatively, it can be undertaken as a separate assessment.
Assessment includes both theory and practical components.
Theory assessment includes presentation of logbook and appropriate standard project that demonstrates knowledge at Flatwater Skills (preparation for a paddling journey including route plan, equipment list, contingency plan, weather interpretation) and Flatwater Supervisor (activity planning, hazard identification and risk management, group equipment, safety briefings, Paddle Australia leader rights and responsibilities.)
Practical assessment requires candidates to conduct an introductory paddling activity demonstrating group and equipment management, safety briefing, response to an incident and debriefing.
Prior to Attending the Course
Participants in this course are expected to have Flatwater Skills or equivalent knowledge and experience. Flatwater skills can be assessed during the 5-day Flatwater Instructor Training for suitable candidates. Alternatively, candidates can undertake the 2-day Flatwater Skills training course.
Flatwater skills include the capability to:
For further detail see http://paddle.org.au/education-safety/flatwater-awards/#FW-Skills
Preparation for the Course
Please come prepared for paddling and capsizing including sufficient warm clothing to change into after on-water sessions. You will need to provide all your personal kayaking equipment such as suitable footwear, sun protection, paddling clothing, hydration and nutrition.
A range of kayaks, canoes, buoyancy vests, paddles and spraydecks are available for courses presented at Paddle SA Bower Road at no additional charge for the duration of the course but it is highly recommended that you source your own where possible.
If you require practical assessment throughout the course you will need to ensure you have leader equipment such as tow line, first aid, waterproofed communication device, whistle, waterproof bags with spare clothing, paddle leash, etc. Alternatively, these items can be presented at a separate assessment date with most items able to be loaned during the training course.
If you require theory assessment throughout the course you will need to submit your Flatwater Skills and Flatwater Supervisor theory projects prior to the course (7 days minimum). Alternatively, these can be presented up to 6 weeks following completion of the training program. For further details see http://paddle.org.au/education-safety/flatwater-awards/#Supervisor
Paddle Australia now prefers electronic records and assessment. It will be helpful if you could download both ‘Paddle Prep’ and ‘Paddle Log’ apps available on both Android and Itunes to your smartphone or other device and be familiar with these resources.
Course Content
The course format is subject to change (due to changing weather conditions or at the discretion of course staff). The most common training format is 50% on-water and 50% off-water (classroom).
The course content will include:
For further information on these courses please contact Paddle SA:
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Holders of the Flatwater Guide Qualification are qualified to lead trips on inland waters
such as lakes, reservoirs and gently flowing rivers. The Paddle Australia Qualification
Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry benchmark designed to meet the needs of the
paddling industry in education, recreational and tourism sectors nation wide.
Gaining This Qualification
Paddle SA’s Flat Water Leadership Course is for those seeking qualification as a Paddling
Supervisor, Flatwater Guide or Flatwater Instructor. This course can be commenced at
anytime and contains components that are completed in your own time and a 3-day
training workshop. The course involves:
A 3-day practical training course which is conducted several times a year at Paddle SA’s
training facility on West Lakes. Dates are published on the PSA online calendar. For small
groups we can negotiate a private course at a location of your choice.
An online Paddle Australia quiz covering legal issues, Hazard and Risk Management,
planning paddling activities, weather and navigation basics.
An online Paddle Australia project developing planning skills necessary for the delivery of
engaging paddling programs.
Gaining personal experience in the field. This is recorded in the Paddle Australia app-
Paddle Log. Once sufficient experience is gained your Paddle Log is submitted to your
assessor for appraisal.
Be observed as competent in conducting a suitable kayaking activity by your assessor.
Qualification Fees
The qualification fees are as follows:
Discounts are available for Paddle Australia members and members of affiliated clubs.
Once your training and assessment are complete your qualification is registered with
Paddle Australia and is valid for 3 years. Registration for three years is $170.
Reregistration every three years is managed via PaddleLog.
Please contact Paddle SA for further information or to enroll in training.
Prior to the Flatwater Leadership Course
Participants in this course are required to have Flatwater Skills or equivalent knowledge
and experience. For experienced paddlers Flatwater Skills are assessed during the Flat
Water Leadership Course. If you have not received tuition from a qualified kayak instructor
it is recommended that you undertake a Flatwater Skills training course prior to the
Leadership Course. For further detail on Flatwater Skills
see: http://paddle.org.au/education-safety/flatwater-awards/#FW-Skills
Preparation for the 3-day practical training course
Kayaks, canoes, buoyancy vests, paddles and spray decks can be supplied by Paddle SA
at no additional charge for the duration of the course. You can also bring your own if it
meets the required standard.
Please come prepared for paddling and capsizing. You will need to provide suitable
footwear, sun protection, paddling clothing and clothing to change into after on-water
sessions, hydration and nutrition.You will need to ensure you have leader equipment
including a short tow line, first aid, waterproofed communication device, whistle,
waterproof bags with spare clothing. Please discuss these requirements with Paddle SA if
you are unsure or do not have all of the listed items.
Please download both ‘Paddle Ed’ and ‘Paddle Log’ apps available from APP Store and
Google Play for your smart phone or the desk top version from the Paddle Australia
website at: Education page.
Course Content
The course covers the following:
For further information please contact Paddle SA.
Holders of the Flatwater Instructor Qualification are qualified to development in participants
skills and knowledge so that they may act independently or with minimal supervision in
Flatwater paddling activities. Instructor awards include all the elements of the related
Guide awards.The Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) course is the industry
benchmark designed to meet the needs of the paddling industry in education, recreational
and tourism sectors nation wide.
Gaining This Qualification
Paddle SA’s Flat Water Leadership Course is for those seeking qualification as a Paddling
Supervisor, Flatwater Guide or Flatwater Instructor. This course can be commenced at
anytime and contains components that are completed in your own time and a 3-day
training workshop. The course involves:
A 3-day practical training course which is conducted several times a year at Paddle SA’s
training facility on West Lakes. Dates are published on the PSA online calendar. For small
groups we can negotiate a private course at a location of your choice.
An online Paddle Australia quiz covering legal issues, Hazard and Risk Management,
planning paddling activities, weather and navigation basics.
An online Paddle Australia project developing planning skills necessary for the delivery of
engaging paddling programs.
Gaining personal experience in the field. This is recorded in the Paddle Australia app-
Paddle Log. Once sufficient experience is gained your Paddle Log is submitted to your
assessor for appraisal.
Be observed as competent in conducting a suitable kayaking activity by your assessor.
Qualification Fees
The qualification fees are as follows:
Discounts are available for Paddle Australia members and members of affiliated clubs.
Once your training and assessment are complete your qualification is registered with
Paddle Australia and is valid for 3 years. Registration for three years is $170.
Reregistration every three years is managed via PaddleLog.
Please contact Paddle SA for further information or to enroll in training.
Prior to the Flatwater Leadership Course
Participants in this course are required to have Flatwater Skills or equivalent knowledge
and experience. For experienced paddlers Flatwater Skills are assessed during the Flat
Water Leadership Course. If you have not received tuition from a qualified kayak instructor it is recommended that you undertake a Flatwater Skills training course prior to the Leadership Course. For further detail on Flatwater Skills see: http://paddle.org.au/education-safety/flatwater-awards/#FW-Skills
Preparation for the 3-day practical training course
Kayaks, canoes, buoyancy vests, paddles and spraydecks can be supplied by Paddle SA
at no additional charge for the duration of the course. You can also bring your own if it
meets the required standard.
Please come prepared for paddling and capsizing. You will need to provide suitable
footwear, sun protection, paddling clothing and clothing to change into after on-water
sessions, hydration and nutrition.You will need to ensure you have leader equipment
including a short tow line, first aid, waterproofed communication device, whistle,
waterproof bags with spare clothing. Please discuss these requirements with Paddle SA if
you are unsure or do not have all of the listed items.
Please download both ‘Paddle Ed’ and ‘Paddle Log’ apps available from APP Store and
Google Play for your smart phone or the desk top version from the Paddle Australia
website at: Education page.
Course Content
The course covers the following:
For further information please contact Paddle SA.
Intro to Sea skills – The holder of this award has demonstrated the ability to plan and conduct personal kayaking activities in sea kayaks in coastal conditions defined as:
Elements include but not limited to:
Further assessment requirements
Sea skills – The holder of this award has demonstrated the ability to plan and conduct personal kayaking activities in sea kayaks at sea defined as outside of estuaries, embayments or other sheltering reefs or islands in moderate conditions:
Elements include but not limited to:
Further assessment requirements
Sea Leader – The holder of this award has been assessed and is qualified to lead groups of sea skills paddlers in sea kayaks at sea defined as outside of estuaries, embayments or other sheltering reefs or islands in moderate conditions:
Sea leaders may also lead people at the level of intro to sea skills or equivalent paddlers in conditions that include:
Not rounding a significant headland
Elements include but not limited to:
Further assessment requirements
For further information on these courses please contact Paddle SA:
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Canoe SA offers a variety of programs for schools and their students. Choose from the programs below.
To discuss the options for a learning experience for students, please contact Paddle SA
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
SACE (South Australian Certificate of Education)
Year 12 and 11 Kayaking Courses
Maximum group size – 24 students
CANOE SA TEAM PADDLE CHALLENGE
A weekend of orienteering and paddling on the River Murray (above Lock 1) and in the backwaters. This weekend activity will be a special learning opportunity for your students. They will learn to work as a team, they will learn that each member of a group has something to contribute to the team, be it the person who can make a quick decision under pressure, or the best navigator in the group, or the person who is best at motivating others. They will be paddling in one of the most beautiful parts of the lower Murray and will see a lot of wildlife including birds and maybe a turtle.
CANOE POLO SCHOOLS PROGRAM
The fast and exciting sport of canoe polo can be the starting point for your students to extend their ability.
Canoe Polo can be played on any flatwater, indoor pool or outdoor lake. (such as West Lakes, Patawalonga or Mawson Lakes) contact Paddle SA for further details
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Students will learn paddling and ball skills, balance, edging and boat control, teamwork, game strategy and have a lot of fun getting wet.
The maximum size of the group applies. Cost of the program may vary.
HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
Paddle SA offers programs for school students in term breaks
Full-day and half-day paddling activities for your school groups (maximum size may apply) at West Lakes or a suitable venue close to your school.
Expedition programs of 2 or more days also available.
BASIC SKILLS
Basic Skills Courses for students – please contact the Paddle SA Office
Email: sa@paddle.org.au
Phone: 0408 390 211
Active8
Paddle SA is a registered Acitive8 provider. We can tailor a program for the needs of your students. Contact Paddle SA sa@paddle.org.au 0408 390 211 to discuss your students learning requirements.
Paddleability for students
Students with a disability may be eligible to join Paddle SA programs. On the water, there are no boundaries. Contact Paddle SAsa@paddle.org.au 0408 390 211 to discuss opportunities for students to join a local canoe club and get involved.
