PAGE 90 | LAKES COAST VISITOR GUIDE LAKES ENTRANCE A fun and challenging event for all kinds of paddlers Considered Victoria's premier gathering of water-based paddle craft, the annual Gippsland Lakes Paddle challenge is happening on Saturday 2nd May 2026, raising important funds for surf lifesaving Lakes Entrance. The event gives all participants the chance to share in a number of 'lucky draw' prizes, all generously donated by sponsors big and small. Many paddle craft options Paddle craft eligible to participate in the 2026 Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge include surf skis, outrigger canoes, ocean racing skis, sit-on and sit-in kayaks, Hobie kayaks, sea kayaks, stand up paddle (SUP), prone paddle boards, canoes, surf boats, St Ayles skiff and coastal rowing boats. Two courses The 27-kilometer challenge (elite paddlers) begins in Paynesville, while the 13km (recreational paddlers), sets off from Metung, with all paddlers eventually mixing to finish at Lakes Entrance. Mates Challenge The popular 'Mates Challenge' category, which follows the 13km Metung course, can be contested on any two-person paddle craft, and participants can be as young as 10-15 years of age (if paddling in the same craft as an adult). All other categories start at 15 years of age. Watercraft hire Those who are keen to participate, but don't have their own watercraft, can hire one. Surf skis and SUP's are also available, with all hire craft delivered to the start line and collected at the end. Safety first Water safety is a priority for organisers, with 10 rescue crafts spread over the course, and contingencies in place for reversing, relocating or rescheduling in the event of adverse weather. Presentations Place and lucky draw prize presentations – as well as light refreshments – will be happening at the surf lifesaving lakes entrance club following the event. Register now Online registration for the 2026 Gippsland Lakes Paddle Challenge opens in mid February 2026 and closes in late April. To register or find out more, visit the website at gippslandlakespaddlechallenge.com.au or email paddle@ lakesentrancesurflifesaving.org.au The annual Gippsland Lakes Paddle challenge is happening on Saturday 2nd May 2026, raising important funds for surf lifesaving Lakes Entrance. Photo: Visit Gippsland CHALLENGE THE LAKES VICTORIA’S PREMIER PADDLE EVENT www.gippslandlakespaddlechallenge.com.au 2nd 2 MAY 2026 MAY 2026 Presented by Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance • SUP & Prone Paddle Board • Surf Ski • Canoe • Outriggers • Hobie, Sit on Top & Sea Kayak • Surf Boats PAYNESVILLE 27KM - METUNG 13KM to PB32590
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