Gannawarra welcomes Massive Murray Paddle participants

Published on 14 November 2019

More than 400 canoe and kayaking enthusiasts will take to the Murray River at Murrabit on Friday, 22 November when the Massive Murray Paddle makes its way downstream.

The five-day event will see paddlers travel 404 kilometres along the Murray River from Yarrawonga to Swan Hill, supported by a group of dedicated support crews.

Murrabit has been the site of the start of the final day of paddling since the event was first held in 1969, when 10 school friends paddled seven canoes down the Murray River to raise $250 for the Australia Red Cross.

“The overnight camp and the start of the last leg of the Massive Murray Paddle is one of the largest events held in Murrabit each year,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“Many of those taking part will set up camp at the Murrabit Recreation Reserve the night before, with the Murrabit Football Netball Club providing dinner as part of fundraising efforts for the 2020 Golden Rivers Football Netball League season.

“The Lions Club of Murrabit will also benefit from the increasing number of visitors, with members to provide breakfast for participants and support crew at the Murrabit Boat Ramp.”

Motorists are advised of increased traffic between Cohuna and Murrabit during the afternoon of Thursday, 21 November as paddlers and support crew travel from the finishing point of the day’s event to Murrabit.

Traffic numbers will also be higher than usual on Murrabit West Road, Benjeroop-Lake Charm Road and Benjeroop-Tresco Road during the morning of 22 November as support crews travel to check points located along the Murray River.

“Council welcomes participants and support crew members to the Gannawarra and wish them all the best during their brief stay in the area,” Mayor Learmonth said.