Hi there, Race Recon have set up this forum as a means to people seeking information about my expedition...maybe you are planning a trip yourself and want to ask some questions? Maybe you are just curious about something? I have a frequently asked questions page on my website, but if you have a topic that you would like to discuss then please post a message. I am currently in Exmouth in Western Australia. I have paddled over 1000kms from Broome in the past month and a bit. The whales are migrating and yesterday in the Exmouth Gulf I saw more whales than I cared to count. At one stage I was lucky enough to be surrounded by a world of whale song...and then two whales surfaced unexpectedly a few metres from my bow. It gave me such a fright and a huge grin.
Thanks for your question. Sorry it has taken a while to reply, I was off paddling the beautiful Ningaloo Reef. On some parts of coast I paddle just behind the breaking surf and follow the coast. Sometimes it is quicker though to cut across a bay and paddle point to point. This takes me further off shore of course and is often not as interesting, but sometimes you need to do that in order to get further in a day. Then in Queensland for example, and recently on the WA north coast I have done a lot of island hopping. The biggest crossing between islands that I have done is around 60kms, so in the middle I was 30kms from the nearest shore. That seems like a long way, but I am comfortable that I can do a self rescue if I were to capsize and come out of the kayak. I also make sure on the big crossings that I have all I need for the day, including safety equipment, on hand in my reach in my day hatch, on deck, in the cockpit or in my pfd pockets. I always make sure I know the forecast too and would not go if the conditions were not right for a crossing of this kind. I really like island hopping and in places like Princess Charlotte Bay in Far North Queensland it was essential as the mainland in the bottom of the bay is big croc territory, but the islands are safer. This week I have been paddling in the Ningaloo Marine Park in WA between Coral Bay and Exmouth. Here the coast is protected for the most part by an outer reef so there is very little surf on the shore and you can paddle right next to the beach if you care to.
Well, I hopethat answers your question... Cheers Sandy
If anyone would like to paddle a section of the coast with me then they should contact me on my mobile 0428 163 314 and also by email robsos@penrhos.wa.edu.au It may take a while to get back to you as a lot of the WA coast is out of mobile range and I can only access emails when I find somewhere with a computer or internet cafe. On the next section of the trip I am paddling Perth to Geraldton. I have put the word out in the WA Sea Kayak Club to see if anyone is interested in joining me. Other paddlers may contact me if they are interested. As to what to bring, you would need to be totally self-sufficeint with your own paddling and expedition equipment. We can discuss what is required when you contact me.
At 63 years of age I think it's awsome what you are doing. I wonder if a sail would be handy for you or is that not within your own guidlines or whatever governs your attempt. Whatever happens I wish you the best. I will certainly keep an eye ear out for your updates Cheers Campbell
Hello Sandy, Been just as busy watching your amazing journey as I have been watching those two blokes on their way to NZ. What a wonderful thing you are doing. And what a great inspiration you and the two fella's are to people in general, not just other paddlers. Enjoy every moment of your inner journey as well as your physical journey, and take good care of yourself. Jeff1
I hope that things are going well for you. Sandy where is your final destination ? And do you have some sort of time frame to complete this mamoth task? At this time of the year does the sea's start to get up? Best of luck Sandy Campbell n Bev Tweed Heads Here today it is very sticky
Hi Sandy, I once thought of doing what you are doing now, and your description of what where why and how, would be really great to read, are you planning a book of your effort? Are you taking any photos? and are you on schedule? I wish you all the best, and keep paddling, wish I was there. Ben Hawkesbury NSW
Hi Guys You might remember I used your magnificent feat to inspire my daughter when she was cycling through the Victorian High Country. Well she's back with no major damage apart from the fact that she might have to sleep standing up for a couple of nights. We're all thinking of you. Keep going as glory and the carnal delights of New Zealand await you.
Hi Guys, Just remember , If it was easy it would have been done before. To do it hard like you are doing makes it all the more rewarding. Don't think about how far to go , just think of each mile covered. All fellow kayakers will have some idea of what you are going through, and will be following you all the way. All my Kiwi kayaking friends are following your trip with great interest. This is a trip to be remembered in history. All the best Mike W
Sandy!!!!!!! where is Sandy ? We all know that you have a HUGE task ahead of you. The Awsome Foursome have made it to Sydney The RATS are doing fine. Christmas has gone and the New Year has been celebrated over and over. Have you enjoyed these events toooooo. Good luck hope to get update soon Campbell n Bev Tweed Heads
are you the one that was attacked by croc's ? I had that happen to me last year in Panama and I can vouch for you that it's a pretty scarry feeling when you see those jaws open and they come running off the beach after you ! I'm on my way to paddle Tasmania for that reason ... no croc's ! have a safe journey !
I can't see where she is right now , but I think she is nearing the Bight? I hope she is doing well and she gets back hope safe and sound as did Justin and James.