Get out on the water

Get out on the water

Docklanders have been invited out onto Victoria Harbour in August by two local aquatic clubs.

On offer for beginners are opportunities to try sailing as well as dragon boating.

The Rotary Club of Docklands and Docklands Yacht Club have joined forces to encourage residents and visitors to get on the water with a “Try Sailing Day” to coincide with the Chocolate Rush Festival on August 14.

And the Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne (CYSM) Sea Dragons dragon boat team is recruiting new paddlers for the 2011/12 season at open days on August 6 and 30.

All events will be held from Shed 2, North Wharf Rd – near the old harbour master’s tower (Bolte Bridge end of Victoria Harbour).

The Try Sailing Day will run from 11am until 4pm on August 14 and will cost $10 per person registration fee, which includes supply of life jackets and boats.

The Docklands Yacht Club says sailing is not an expensive sport and the small yachts being provided can be sailed with minimal or no experience. No special clothing is required but flat shoes advisable.

Safety boats will be operating during the program and sausage sizzle and drinks will also be available.

“Once you have experienced being on the water, there will be more opportunities to join us again in future months,” club spokesman Coral Allen said.

The Sea Dragons are holding a number of open days in coming months.

Spokesperson Jen Powell said: “We are a friendly team that values diversity and teamwork, and we also like to win! If you enjoy teamwork, want to get into shape and find an outlet for your competitive streak, come along to one of our open days. We think you might even get hooked!”

“It is the perfect opportunity to come and meet the team, meet the coach, have a paddle and enjoy some morning tea and a cuppa afterwards,” she said.

“We are looking forward to a great summer of paddling and would love for you to join us. The paddling season is just around the corner with the first friendly competition in October. There are a number of other races throughout summer in the lead up to the Australian Championships that will be held in Melbourne in April 2012.”

The dragon boat events will be held at 10am on August 6 and 11, September 3 and 17 as well as October 1.  Just bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, old clothes (t-shirt or thermal top, shorts, bike shorts or leggings), a change of warm and dry clothes, and your enthusiasm.

For more information about the sailing, call Ray 0429 868 304 or Mark 0418 322 299

For more information about dragon boating, call Erika 0431 306 287 or Ting 0433 063 136 or email [email protected]

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