Stephen Bennett and Lani Chalmers are ready to hit the water on Saturday at Woodgate! Will you join them?
Locals will get a chance to try their hand at the latest Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) craze to hit the country when a brand new kayak and paddle board hire business officially launches this weekend.
After much anticipation, Woodgate Beach Kayak and Paddleboard Hire will be officially opened on Saturday by Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett.
Despite initial red tape setbacks, owner/operator Lani Chalmers said she was looking forward to finally being able to share her passion out on the water with the community.
Mrs Chalmers said the business had been in the pipeline for about six months following a prolonged application.
“This business has been in conception from early October, and we were finally granted permission from the Marine Parks Authority and Native Title approval on the 7th of April,” she said.
“With the assistance and guidance of Stephen Bennett MP, we were able to navigate both the council and marine park approvals… he was instrumental in gaining us a timely response from both.
“The council and marine parks regulations are in place to protect what we take for granted – natural beauty and the environment just the way it is. Without both, businesses like mine could make a negative impact, and we are grateful that both of these institutions are in place to maintain the area we live in for the future of our children.”
Mrs Chalmers said she looked forward to welcoming families along at the Open Day on Saturday.
To celebrate, Mrs Chalmers is offering a free ‘come and try’ session, with complimentary gifts for the first 100 participants.
“Bring your friends and family and enjoy a day on the water with us,” she said.
“We have a large hire fleet of SUP boards along with fully fitted out fishing single and double kayaks.”
Stephen Bennett congratulated Mrs Chalmers for persisting and turning her dream into a reality.
“While it’s been a difficult start for Lani, it’s great to see this local business is finally up off the ground,” he said.
“The Woodgate Beach Kayak and Paddleboard Hire business will be a great addition to the Woodgate community and will attract even more visitors to this beautiful part of our region.
“I’m looking forward to being part of the open day and I encourage people to come on out and have a go at one of the fastest growing board sports in the world.
“Stand-up paddle boarding is not only a lot of fun for all age groups, but there’s some amazing health and fitness benefits linked to the outdoor water sport.”
Open Day details:
What: Free Come and try day *conditions apply
When: Saturday, April 29, 9am.
Where: The Esplanade, Woodgate – opposite the tourist park
Wednesday, 26 April 2017