Ballarat Region Kayaking Program

The aim is to build long-term capacity within schools and the wider community to deliver high performance kayaking programs. Through the provision of required equipment and training this project will encourage all community members to live a more active life and participate in water sport activities. By providing a grassroots development programs and feeder pathways this project may identify the next Olympic kayak champions of Australia.

The key activities involved in this project will be the purchase of required boats and equipment for use by schools and the training of staff to understand the safety requirements on the water.

Australia has sent kayak teams to every Olympics since 1956 when Lake Wendouree hosted the Olympics. As with 1956, Australia has won Olympic medals in many Olympic Games Regattas.
Lake Wendouree is an excellent training and racing venue, and there is a club located on the lake that could host the paddlers. Engaging young people in kayak racing is giving them the opportunity to explore a sport that can provide ongoing participation and a pathway to international success.