There are moments in a club’s life that feel like true milestones. Acquiring our very first six-man outrigger canoe is surely one. We are thrilled to introduce Xavier, a well-travelled Force 5 with a rich history and a whole lot of mana.
Xavier was originally owned the Xavier Catholic College in Hervey Bay Queensland where student paddlers learned teamwork, rhythm, and the joy of being on the water. She was later acquired by Fraser Coast Outrigger Canoe Club. When we saw she was for sale for a very reasonable price we enlisted the help of the broader outrigger community to have her transported several thousand kms south to Moruya.
The final leg of her journey south is one we will always be grateful for. Thanks to the generosity of a key member from the Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club, Xavier was transported all the way from Queensland to her new home in Moruya. It’s a beautiful reminder of the spirit of the outrigger community, connected, supportive, and always willing to lend a hand to help another club grow.
For our club, welcoming Xavier is more than just acquiring equipment. It’s a leap forward in building our capacity and growing our community. She opens the door to more team paddling, more participation at events, and more opportunities to bring newcomers into the sport.
If you see us out on the Moruya River with Xavier, give us a wave, or come down and join us.