Spurred on by North Sydney Council’s attempt to clear the beach of excess kayaks, the Kayak Share Club was formed – an initiative that rapidly became much more than a solution to a problem.
When the issue of clutter on Neutral Bay’s Hayes Street Beach was discussed by North Sydney Council, North Shore local, Loretta May, didn’t hesitate petitioning for a kayak share program that would mollify the Council’s concerns and offer, ‘an accessible, friendly environment’ to kayak with like-minded people.
With the support of Paddle Australia to ensure safety standards were met, the initiative was able to offer an invigorating and low-cost activity for ‘old-hands and newbies alike’.
The premise is simple – a not-for-profit, community-run club that sees kayaks provided by a few members for the use and enjoyment of all the members. While there may be no ‘clubhouse’, the fleet of nine kayaks are moored on timber log racks built by the Council at the eastern end of the beach.
For John Barrow, his participation in the club ‘fitted an ideal solution’ to both an interest in kayaking and a degree of accessibility not readily available. His background in civil engineering meant he was not only able to offer his skills towards kayak maintenance, but act as an intermediary between the club and Council on such matters as new rack designs.
This voluntary work is part of the unique spirit of community fostered in this group; members regularly offer up their expertise and time to building up the club.
The success of the initiative speaks for itself. Since its foundation in 2019, membership has doubled each year, giving committee secretary Cathy Zenkis – who ensures all new members are appropriately trained – plenty to do. On top of this, she assists in monthly networking events for the club and its members, something greatly appreciated by those new to the locality.
As founding member, Loretta, recounts, ‘you do a lot of bonding out on the water’. For a hobby that, at first, can seem daunting and unapproachable, the overarching idea of the Kayak Share Club is one of connection and community. Every aspect of the initiative, from a buddy-up paddle system to group adventures to surrounding islands (and cafés), offers support.
Additionally, the Kayak Share Club’s focus on sustainability reduces resource waste and environmental impact, and facilitates greater awareness of nature. This is echoed by member Ken Woolfe, who highlighted:
“So many benefits for the community and environment… There should be one in every bay in the harbour.” A sentiment echoed by every one of its 170 members.
This is not an impossible dream, as the club recently established its second location in Pearl Bay, again offering active community engagement and an enjoyable physical activity for more locals to enjoy.
The club also recently expressed interest to Mosman Council for kayak storage and use, another idyllic site for exploring the beautiful Sydney waters. In the meantime, both the Hayes St. Beach and Pearl Bay locations welcome all ages and abilities.
For details and to express interest in joining the Kayak Share Club, see their website kayakshareclub.org.
By Amelia McNamara