Paddle Queensland Executive Officer Scott Sharples joins Dougie and Hando on Episode 17 of Paddles Ready to discuss participation growth, stronger paddling communities and the Gold Coast’s potential to host a major international event.
From helping children experience paddling for the first time to exploring opportunities on the world stage, the conversation highlights our commitment to “More people paddling, More of the Time.”
Scott discusses Paddle Queensland’s 15% membership growth over the previous year, the role of Ready.Set.Paddle in welcoming children and newcomers onto the water, and opportunities to bring paddling disciplines, clubs and communities closer together.
The episode also explores the possibility of the Gold Coast hosting the 2030 World Paddle Games.
Hosting has not been secured, but the opportunity could have a significant impact on paddling in Queensland and across Australia. Asked to rate what it would mean for Paddle Queensland on a scale of one to ten, Scott’s answer was simple:
“15.”
With Brisbane 2032 just two years later, a major international paddle event could help build experience among athletes, officials and volunteers, strengthen infrastructure and raise the profile of paddle sports.
The episode also features 60 Seconds with Dougie from Manila and Hando’s Hot Take on volunteer burnout—a relevant discussion for the clubs and communities that keep our sport moving.
🎧 Listen or watch Episode 17 of Paddles Ready: “Could the Gold Coast Become the Home of Paddle Sports? With Scott Sharples.”