Port Stephens Paddlers endure crocodiles in spectacular Ord River Marathon event

A COURAGEOUS crew from the Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club have tackled crocodiles and fatigue to complete the gruelling 55 kilometre marathon paddle down Western Australia’s famous Ord River.

Eighteen paddlers from the Soldiers Point-based club travelled west to compete in the spectacular event – and came face to face with salt water crocodiles in the process.

Local paddler Ali Parker told News Of The Area that the travelling warriors  even survived a chilling moment when their boat capsized in crocodile territory.

“After spotting a croc near the finish line one of the support crew flashed past our boat and created an enormous wash that tipped us over,” Ms Parker said.

“But in true Port Stephens fashion we picked ourselves up and got back in the boat to complete the challenging task,” she said.

The annual Ord River paddle stretches from the Lake Argyle Dam wall to the Celebrity Tree Boat Ramp in Lilly Lagoon, Kununurra enabling paddlers to enjoy the enthralling Kimberley landscape.

Hosted by the Kununurra Dragon Boat Club, all teams support each other while traversing along the river.

Upon finishing the marathon event, the crew were forced to paddle an extra kilometre downstream with fresh water crocodiles lurking in the waters.

A third refreshment stop was cancelled with the brave crew pushing on.

“Some crew changes occurred throughout the day but there were no injuries and spirits remained high during the marathon paddle,”  Ms Parker said.

The Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club paddlers to compete included Jodie Blake, Kelly Hamilton, Sally Hickman, Andrew Hickman, Peter Mullen, Kate Stenhouse, Ali Parker, Troy Vingerhoed, Sue Peters, Jacinta Veitch, Judy Nisbet, Libby Ingersole, Neville Jacobs, Kerry Jacobs, Kerry Agland, Karyn Price, Linda Reilly and club coach Brendon Jones.

By Chris KARAS