Paddle Australia has launched its new strategic plan, “Paddle Forward 32”, which sets out a bold vision for paddling in the country.
By creating a world-class sport and a vibrant adventure-focused lifestyle along with a community where everyone belongs, Paddle Australia will establish a “home of paddle sports”.
Click here to read Paddle Forward 32
As the country prepares for a home Olympic and Paralympic Games with Brisbane playing host in 2032, Paddle Australia is uniting at all levels of the sport to shape the future of paddling.
Paddle Australia’s purpose is to support, inspire and develop all paddlers that fosters a sense of belonging to a world-leading sport and lifestyle.
To realise Paddle Australia’s vision to create a dynamic and thriving paddle ecosystem, the following five pillars will support the growth strategy towards 2032:
- Pillar One: Lifestyle, Clubs and Community - developing an inclusive and active paddling community with pathways, platforms and programs
- Pillar Two: Engagement and Partnerships - supporting the growth and sustainability of our sport and lifestyle
- Pillar Three: Sport and Events - elevating Australia as a premier paddle destination, improving quality of on/off water events and promoting quality paddling experiences
- Pillar Four: Performance and Pathways - supporting our Australian athletes to become the world's best paddlers and people
- Pillar Five: Leadership and Services - leading with capability to serve, grow, promote and advocate for our paddling community.
Paddle Australia President and three-time Olympian Andrew Trim says the new blueprint for the sport is designed to connect every paddler across the country, insisting it is “more than just a plan, it’s a movement”.
“Paddle Forward 32 is a call for every paddler, partner, and stakeholder to join in building a sport and lifestyle that inspires, unites, and thrives for generations to come,” said Trim.
“For us, success will require the sport to reach more people than ever before, welcome new participants as well as connect with broader communities.
“As Australia looks towards 2032 and the incredible opportunity hosting an Olympic and Paralympic Games will present, PA is uniting at all levels to shape the future of paddling in Australia.
“Our redefined purpose is to support, inspire, and develop all paddlers; fostering a sense of belonging to our world-leading sport and lifestyle.”
This kind of leadership and vision strengthens our collective efforts to modernise and grow the sport worldwide
Richard Pettit, Secretary General of the International Canoe Federation, said: “The launch of Paddle Australia’s strategic plan, Paddle Forward 32, marks a significant and welcome step for our global paddling community.
“It’s a clear, forward-thinking strategy that aligns closely with our strategic roadmap, Fit for Future.
“We value having such a capable and progressive partner in Paddle Australia—this kind of leadership and vision strengthens our collective efforts to modernise and grow the sport worldwide.”
Excitement is building in Australia with Sydney poised to stage this year’s International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Championships from September 29 to October 4.
More than 300 athletes from 40 nations will be in action at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, a legacy venue of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
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Australia registered its best-ever results across the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, courtesy of four golds, two silvers and two bronzes.
Following this achievement, Trim said now was the right time to reset and look at how paddle sports can achieve success more broadly.
“We are incredibly proud of the results our representative teams achieve on the world stage across all our paddle disciplines; and the people and role models we have both on and off the water including our Board members, National and State executives and staff, partners, commercial industry operators, coaches, officials, volunteers, families and fans are the best, said Trim.
“This plan goes beyond our sporting success on the podium, with the vision to create a dynamic and thriving paddling ecosystem.
“While our clubs will always be at the heart of what we do, we want to engage actively with and add value to the broader paddling community.
“We have a rich history of success that gives us a strong foundation, and now it’s time to grow, expand and diversify our revenue streams.”
Trim added: “Paddle Forward 32 has been developed in consultation with our broader paddling community, led by our new Chief Executive Kim Crane.
“With the full support of our State Associations, and the Paddle Australia Board working hand in hand with the Paddle Australia management team, we are ready to implement our new roadmap with capability to lead and serve with energy, expertise and drive that will create a legacy all the way to Brisbane 2032 and beyond.”
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