Outrigging clubs from Perth, Peel and South West to descend on Drakesbrook Weir for Waroona Paddling Festival

A popular Waroona recreation spot is set to come alive later this month when it hosts a celebration of an aquatic sport.

Drakesbrook Weir will become a hive of activity on March 26 for the Shire of Waroona’s inaugural Waroona Paddling Festival.

It will bring outrigging clubs from Perth, the Peel and South West regions together for friendly sprint races and open training sessions.

People will be encouraged to try outrigger canoeing, with a free instructional session held by the Kwillana Va’a club from 10am.

Waroona shire president Mike Walmsley said the public would be invited on to their boats.

“You’ll be shown how to hold a paddle, correct paddling technique and how to stay in time with the rest of the crew,” he said.

“There will even be a sports commentator on the water’s edge explaining the skills you’ll need to be successful paddler.

“Plus, the more confident volunteers will be given the opportunity to race off against their friends.”

Clubs from South Yunderup, Fremantle, Perth, Bunbury, Mandurah and Rockingham will all take part.

For those looking for something a bit more leisurely, there will be free kayak hire during the morning, free lawn games, music and other entertainment, with paid refreshments also available.

There will be a celebration of Waroona’s multicultural workforce, with a performance from Southside Cook Island Dance Troupe bringing the canoeing culture and its link with Polynesian communities to life.

The event will be held from 8am to noon and is supported by the Australian Sports Commission.

More information on the event is available at waroona.wa.gov.au/events.