Noosa Outriggers back in action

Noosa Outrigger Club members practice.

Bob Lennox

The Noosa Outrigger Club is coming back into full activity around this time of year. The AGM was held last week, with all office bearers elected.

As the club launches into full action, it has reviewed the origins of the sport. Legend has it outriggers and double-hulled canoes were used by ancient seafaring people from East Asia many centuries before the time of Christ.

These canoes varied in design and size, depending on their specific purpose. It is believed these people later used outriggers to explore the Pacific. Outriggers became a means to transport people to the East Pacific, Polynesia and New Zealand and west across the Indian Ocean as far away as Madagascar.

Over the centuries, through innovation, local materials and needs, the outrigger evolved into the forerunner of the sleek forms we now see plying the majestic Noosa River and the beautiful ocean surrounds.

If you would like to be part of this fast growing sport, from social to competitive and kids through to seniors, contact Des on 0420 935 769.