Paddle-out 2018 brings ocean lovers together
This year, children from Give a Child a Family were also treated to a wonderful day out.
Surfers, fishermen, pleasure boat trippers, divers and ocean lovers united last Saturday at Sonny Evans Small Craft Harbour in Shelly Beach for the Paddle out for Sharks and for ocean conservation, and to celebrate World Oceans Day.
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The day broke with a spectacular sunrise, setting the tone for the rest of the day.
Some 40 surfers joined the boats out at sea, where Roland Mauz of African Dive Adventures gave a short talk about shark conservation, and the important role sharks play in the well-being of our blue planet.
Flowers were symbolically thrown into the sea, while some boats sported large banners, demonstrating their support for sharks. One banner boldly read: ‘healthy oceans need sharks’.
Event organiser, Beulah Mauz, said that at every paddle out they aim to spread a message of the importance of shark and ocean conservation. “We also use the opportunity to give a bit back to the community and host a group of children for the day,” she added.
“Heather Clark and the local surfing community certainly steal the show each year with their great spirit and passion for the ocean,” said Beulah.
This year, children from Give a Child a Family were also treated to a wonderful day out. Those children too young to go out to sea had their faces painted and were entertained by Harry the Hammerhead at the base. The children’s morning out was filled with exciting surprises and they were thrilled to get a ride with motorcyclists from Ruff Culture Motorcycle Club.
They were also given a talk on water and ocean safety by representatives of the NSRI, followed by a sandcastle building competition and were treated to a delicious spread of food.
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