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The day dawned with an ambitious goal: a 60km ultra-marathon paddle through the stunning waters of Jervis Bay and Currumbene Creek. Two boats, 16 paddlers each, two sweeps, and a slightly wild onshore crew were ready to motivate, laugh, and (possibly) question their life choices as they embarked on this epic feat for charity.
Our Mission
Paddle for a Purpose. The cause? Paddle a sponsored 60km Ultra-marathon while raining much-needed funds for SAHSSI (Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra). We proudly announce that we paddled our hearts out to raise $2,000 to help those in need within our community!
Our Supporters
Just as Mako gathered to support SAHSSI, the Jervis Bay community rallied (again) to help us in our efforts:
- Club Jervis Bay: thank you for supporting Mako over the past years, especially with purchasing our two boats that took to the water and waved the Club JB and Mako flags loud and proud.
- David Lunn from Bowline Remedial Massage Therapy, took up station on shore to help iron out any paddle-related aches and pains. Let’s be honest: after 60km, we were ALL David’s biggest fans.
- And then came the Feast of the Gods, the past-paddle BBQ and what a welcome feast that was. A culinary thank you to:
- Steve from Jervis Bay Meat Co. for a mountain of bacon
- Troy and Justine Bryce at Huskisson Bakery & Cafe for our bread and buns
- Erin Smith from Wandy Perfect Produce and Plants for the stunning farm fresh eggs
- Super Chef Dave Molyneaux for wielding the tools and cooking up a storm for the troops
Back To the Water
The antics kicked off bright and early. The tides were strong, the jokes were terrible, and the laughter was uncontrollable. Adding to the chaos, a random seal decided to take up residence next to the Mako camp, providing moral support (and possibly wondering why on earth we were paddling for fun). After a quick break to inhale snacks (or maybe nap, who’s judging?), it was time to get back on the water for round two.
This is when things got… interesting. Delirium struck as we closed in on the 40km mark, and next thing you know, Australia’s Got Talent had nothing on us. Off-key renditions of Life Goes On and possibly some Blondie filled the air. Were we still paddling? Who knows. Did we sound good? Absolutely not. But the vibes were immaculate!
Between rounds, the onshore scene was just as lively. The battle for the next massage slot was fierce, and our traditional Sunday quiz turned into a Mako paddler’s conference as we recharged for the final stretch.
The Final Stretch
Ah, the last 10km. The clouds parted, revealing a perfectly glassy, turquoise creek—almost too inviting. But we had business to finish. With perfect timing and in beautiful synchronicity, both boats glided into the finish together, cheers and laughter ringing out, smiles all around, and maybe one or two tired sighs of relief.
Another adventure in the books, another first for Mako, and we’re very grateful for the support from our community. The #makomojo is strong, and we’re already considering our next big challenge.
Until then, thank you to everyone who made today possible. We raised $2,000 for SAHSSI, sang our hearts out (badly), paddled like champs, made some memories with mates and even got cheered on by a seal!
