Dampier to host first North West SUP Fest

Pilbara residents will be able to put their paddleboarding skills to the test at the region’s first stand-up paddleboarding festival.

The North West SUP Fest will run over two days on July 28 and 29 in Dampier. Organiser Jaclyn Nicholl said enthusiasts from Exmouth, Hedland and Karratha had been talking about starting an event for some time.

“It has kind of been in the pipeline for a while now to have another event up here after the Red Dog Relay,” she said.

“All the events are really in the South West and we are disadvantaged because we have to travel with gear to compete in these events.

“We really wanted something in the North West where everyone could participate and the idea is it has different levels of paddling skills so everyone can have a go.”

Day one will be for the racers with an 8km downwind half-marathon for those who fancy themselves on a board, followed by 1km and 200m sprint races.

Nicholl said the sprints would be suitable for race and cruise boards.

“We just want to see everyone having fun, getting involved and giving it a go,” she said.

The Sunday will feature a community paddle loop in the harbour for all ages and abilities, with a few snags on the barbie to end the event.

It is hoped the SUP festival becomes an annual skills test.