Works have successfully been completed on the Goulburn River Slalom Rapid to enhance the main wave and re-build and improve many of the groins. The works were carried out 10th – 12th August as part of the preparation for the 2021 Paddle Australia All Ages Canoe Slalom Age Championships which were provisionally scheduled for 15th -17th January 2021, subject to COVID-19 constraints.
The improvements will be of benefit to all whitewater paddlers, competition and recreational, and builds on the enormous amount of work that has been completed at the site over the past 40 years. As well as maintaining the site as a National Standard Slalom Course, safety and entrapment hazards were addressed. The section of river is used widely by the community, School groups regularly experience moving water in all sorts of craft and authorities such as SES use the site for swift water rescue training.
The works were made possible by funding from the Murrindindi Shire and their support is greatly appreciated. The works were carried out by the expert team at contractors Statewide River and Stream Management who have carried out work at the site in the past. An additional 100 ton of rock was added.
The Paddle Vic Board Chair, Paul Loughran, with Chris Runting, Chair of the Slalom Committee approached Murrindindi Shire and presented the case for maintaining the asset and the economic case of being able to host national sporting events in the shire. Chris oversaw the works and Warwick Draper provided design and technical advice.
Chris and Paul contacted the numerous authorities and organizations involved in the Upper Goulburn and received enthusiastic co-operation that enabled the works to occur. The river flow was dropped to 150Ml/day. Thanks to Goulburn Murray Water, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, Pacific Hydro, AGL and the Outdoor Education Group for their co-operation in making it possible for the works to happen.
Chris and Paul commented on the goodwill and support from the local landholders and river authorities expressed towards all aspects of paddling on the Goulburn.
