Shetland Sea Kayak Symposium 7 - 10th July 2000 at Bridge-end, Burra, Shetland

What is a Sea Kayak Symposium?

It is basically a weekend long event for people interested in kayaking to get together socially, try new equipment, meet and obtain guidance from the top people in the sport, attend lectures and discussion groups of their choice and most importantly - enjoy themselves. It is aimed at paddlers at all skill levels from beginners to hardened expeditioners alike. There will be a choice of activities so everyone can choose whether to have an action-packed weekend or a leisurely time.

Where is it to be held?

This time the event will be held at Bridge-End Outdoor Centre on Burra, Shetland. The Bridge-End Hall (5 minutes walk away) will also be used for catering and lectures.

The Outdoor Centre is situated adjacent to a marina so all practical activities will be very easy to organise. The waters surrounding the marina are very sheltered, however, more challenging, superb paddling is only a short distance away.

What is the programme for the weekend?

The programme is very varied and ranges from practical skills sessions to nature lectures. There will be sessions on VHF radio use, navigation, games, access and so on. On the Saturday and Sunday evenings there will be slide show/lectures from two of the visiting contributors.

There will be trade shows with demo boats and lots of equipment to buy or drool over.

Who will be there?

The contributors will be Mike McLure, from Northern Ireland, Franco Ferrero, who has written several books on river rescue, navigation etc, Mike Dales from Tayside, and Fran Pothecary, Access Officer with the SCA as well as several local contributors. Between them there is a vast experience of kayaking which they are all more than willing to pass on to us.

As well as local paddlers there has already been a large amount of interest from all over the UK and beyond, so expect to see a wide variety of paddlers, boats and equipment.

What accommodation is available?

Dormitory accommodation (limited so book early to avoid disappointment) is available in the Outdoor Centre and camping will be available nearby. There are cooking, dining, washing, showering and laundry facilities in the centre.

What about meals?

Full catering will be available at the Bridge-End Hall at a high standard so there is no need to take any food if you do not wish to.

How do I register for the event?

You can reply by e-mail to zetyak@aol.com or write to Shetland Canoe Club, c/o Bridge-End Outdoor Centre, Burra, Shetland, ZE2 9LD.

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