Outer Edge Oct/Nov/Dec 2014 | Page 7

Take on the 404km Paddling Event of a Lifetime After a fresh challenge? Take on the Southern Hemisphere’s longest paddling event the YMCA Massive Murray Paddle. Here’s what you can expect when you sign up for the 404km race over five days on the mighty Murray River. Day 1 – Yarrawonga to Tocumwal (93km) With the impressive backdrop of the Yarrawonga Weir Power Station the gun fires signalling the start of your paddling adventure. You’ll pull in tired but happy to Tocumwal – thankful for the supplies and support of your crew at the checkpoints throughout the day, and looking forward to a good night’s sleep. Day 2 – Tocumwal to Picnic Point (94km) Paddling through the Barmah Forest there’s no denying the sheer beauty of regional Australia, and what better way to experience it than from the water. You’ll muster everything you have to push through the second and most challenging day of paddling! Day 3 – Picnic Point to Echuca (78km) You’ll be in awe as you wind through The Narrows (where the river travels at almost twice its normal speed) with the morning sunlight filtering through the forest. The final stretch see’s you paddling into Echuca on the wake of a paddle steamer, which are the only other boats allowed on the river over the five day event. That night you look forward to checking out one of the great local haunts in Echuca to celebrate passing the halfway mark. Day 4 – Echuca to Torrumbarry (62km) Dressed head to toe in your best red outfits for ‘Red Day’ competition, as is tradition, you’ll head downstream on the cruisiest day of paddling towards the Torrumbarry Weir. By this stage you’ll have come to know and share each days paddling with the other teams on the water. Day 5 – Murrabit to Swan Hill (77km) As you draw closer to the finish line emotions run wild. All the training, preparation, fundraising and hard yakka has led to the moment you cross the finish line to the awaiting crowds of friends, family and supporters on the banks of Swan Hill. Awaken your wild side this 24-28 November. Visit www.massivemur raypaddle.or g.au