Hosted by Gold Coast Outrigger Canoe Club | Saturday 17 October 2026
The Broadwater Bash brought paddlers together for a day focused on connection, community and the shared enjoyment of outrigger canoeing. Hosted by Gold Coast Outrigger Canoe Club, the adventure offered a different experience from the racing calendar, with V12 paddling, shared crews and an opportunity to explore the Gold Coast’s waterways.
The participant list recorded 48 booked places, with registered paddlers ranging from 13 to 74 years of age. The mix of junior and adult paddlers highlighted the appeal of activities that bring generations together and encourage participation beyond competition.
With no racing, results or placings, the focus was on teamwork and enjoying the journey. The event’s random seat draw was designed to mix crews, introduce paddlers to new faces and strengthen connections across the paddling community.
The planned route covered approximately 42 kilometres across five legs, starting from Muriel Henchman Park and linking Paradise Point, Couran Cove, Tipplers and North Currigee before returning to the club’s Paddle House. The itinerary combined a substantial paddling challenge with opportunities to stop, refuel and spend time together along the way.
Comfort stops, snacks and a lunch stop at Tipplers were included in the program, while the route showcased the Broadwater, island waterways and the area around Wave Break Island. Event preparations included a mandatory briefing, support boat coverage and designated first aid arrangements.
The Broadwater Bash demonstrated the value of club-led adventure paddles alongside competitive events. This format creates opportunities for paddlers to build confidence, develop teamwork and enjoy a shared challenge while strengthening their connection with their club and the wider paddling community.
Paddle Queensland thanks Gold Coast Outrigger Canoe Club, President and Adventure Paddle Director Leigh Paine, and the committee, organisers, steerers, volunteers and support crew for their work in bringing the event together. Thank you also to everyone who registered and supported this community paddling initiative.
More people paddling, more of the time.