NEW AND VISITING Paddlers
Bondi OCC welcomes new paddlers of all ages and experience levels to join our club. We run a mix of sessions throughout the week from Woollahra Sailing Club at Rose Bay.
We encourage new paddlers to come and try outrigger paddling and have paddles available to use. We will teach you the paddle stroke, the roles of each paddler in the canoe, the components of the canoe and safety protocols. Learn about the culture of the canoe and what makes it such an exciting sport that brings people together.
For your safety, paddlers should be comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills.
Paddlers new to the sport should contact our head coach to discuss which sessions will be suitable.
Visiting Sydney? Please contact us to check availability to join us for a paddle on our beautiful harbour.
SESSIONS
OC6 Sessions
Tuesday - Mixed
Thursday - Women's
Friday - Men's
5:30am – 6:45am
Sunday - Mixed
6:30am – 8:00am
Session times may change when race crews are training.
Non-members should contact us if you want to join a session.
OC1, V1, Va’a Sessions (mixed)
Monday & Wednesday
5:30 am – 6:30 am
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How do I join the Bondi Outrigger Canoe Club?Joining the club is easy! We recommend you start by signing up for a trial session if you’re new to outrigger canoeing to get a feel for the sport. Our team is happy to assist with any questions about membership and getting started. Contact us for more details.
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What is outrigger canoeing, and can beginners join?Yes, beginners are welcome! Outrigger canoeing is a unique style of paddling that originated in Polynesia. It uses a canoe with lateral supports (outriggers) for stability in the water. We teach new paddlers the basics of paddling techniques, water safety, and the rich cultural heritage of outrigger canoeing. Our coaches will ensure you learn at a comfortable pace, with beginner-friendly training sessions held throughout the season.
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Do I need previous paddling experience?No experience is necessary to join! We offer training for all levels. New paddlers will start with the fundamentals, such as technique, teamwork, and safety. If you’re an experienced paddler, you’ll fit right in with our intermediate or competitive crews.
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Is outrigger canoeing a good workout?Absolutely! Outrigger canoeing is a fantastic full-body workout. It builds strength in your arms, back, core, and legs while improving cardiovascular endurance. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, improve your overall health, or enjoy an active lifestyle on the water, outrigger paddling is an excellent choice.
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What do I need to bring to training sessions?The club provides paddles and canoes, so all you need to bring is comfortable workout gear (or a swimsuit), a hat, sunscreen, water, and a positive attitude! You may also want to bring water shoes and a change of clothes for after the session.
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What’s the paddling community like at Bondi Outrigger Canoe Club?Our club prides itself on a strong sense of community. You'll find supportive teammates and new friendships both on and off the water. Beyond the fitness and paddling, the club regularly hosts social events and gatherings, creating a community that extends beyond training.
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Are there opportunities for competitive paddling?Yes! If you’re an experienced paddler or looking to get into competitive paddling, we participate in a range of races throughout the season. These include local events, national competitions, and even international races. Racing is a great way to challenge yourself, push your limits, and represent the club. Our competitive crews train regularly and are always excited to welcome new members who share their passion for racing.
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How do I learn about membership fees?For details on membership fees, please contact us directly. We’ll be happy to walk you through the membership options.