Paddle WA provides courses for new paddlers (Basic Skills) and experienced paddlers (PAQS qualifications). Our Basic Skills Course is a half-day intro to paddling that teaches the essential paddling strokes and safety skills, while our formal qualification courses are run over two (2) days to cover all training and assessment for experienced paddlers (3 years or more).
Paddle WA Course Fees
Paddle WA/Paddle Australia members will receive a 20% discount on PAQS Courses (excludes Basic Skills Course)
Flatwater Guide/Instructor — $320
Whitewater Guide/Instructor — $350
Moving Water Endorsement & Rescue — $320
Coastal Guide — $330
Basic Skills — $100 (adults), $80 (under 18)
Paddle Australia Registration Fees
Guide/Instructor Registration (3 years)Â —Â $170 (first qualification), $18 (subsequent qualifications)
Skills Qualification Registration (3 years)Â —Â $20
Rescue Qualification Registration — $20
Basic Skills Course — $0
Testimonials
The Basic Skills Course is delivered by our Paddle Academy instructors, and are designed for anybody wanting to learn the essential paddling strokes and safety skills to go paddling in WA. Individuals of any paddling ability will benefit from this course, and all participants will receive a certificate following completion of the course.
COURSE OVERVIEW
A variety of paddling skills, safety and rescue techniques will be taught in the program, including
- Preparation of paddle craft and equipment
- Launching and landing your craft
- Correct paddling posture
- Paddling strokes and the correct technique
- ‘Rafting up’
- Assisting with deep water rescues
The full assessment guideline document can be read here.
All equipment is provided (kayak, paddle, life jacket), but please feel free to use your own craft if you wish.
UPCOMING COURSES
Sunday 7th November 2021 | Ascot Kayak Club, Belmont | 9.00am – 12.30pm | Register Here
Cost: $120 (adults) or $80 (under 18)
Note: the minimum age is 12
INSURANCE
All participants of the course will be covered under the Paddle Australia Insurance for the duration of the basic skills course only.
If you wish to purchase a direct membership with Paddle WA for just $85 to get 24/7 insurance coverage, visit paddlewa.asn.au/direct-membership or contact develop@paddlewa.asn.au
Qualification Courses
Paddle Australia Qualification Scheme (PAQS) is the national benchmark for paddling. The scheme includes skills and leadership programs. Leadership qualifications includes Supervisors, Instructors, Guides and Sea Leaders. The leadership programs are assessed by Paddle Australia Assessors.
Qualifications give you the authority to deliver training and are indicators of your ability to paddle on flat, white and/or sea waters. These are best suited to Outdoor Education Teachers, Commercial Guides, Instructors, Paddling Guides and the like. When you are deemed competent with a qualification, you will be reassured that you have the knowledge and skills to paddle at that level, and others can be reassured that you are qualified to deliver paddling experienced to that level.
Paddle WA provides courses for new paddlers (Basic Skills) and experienced paddlers (PAQS Qualifications). Our Basic Skills Course is a half-day intro to paddling that teaches the essential paddling strokes and safety skills, while our formal leadership qualification courses are run over two (2) days or more to cover all training and assessment for experienced paddlers (3 years or more).
External Courses
Paddle Australia Assessors are able to run their own leadership qualification courses. This is done in association with a National Training Provider (NTP). Paddle WA is the NTP for the Paddle Australian Qualification Scheme (PAQS) in Western Australia.
Coaching
Paddle WA delivers online coaching courses:Â https://paddle.org.au/education-safety/coaching-handbook/
Officials
The role an official plays in canoeing is not often recognised as important, but events would simply not run without the efforts of these vital volunteers.
More information can be found at https://paddle.org.au/education-safety/officiating-handbook/