The Western Australian paddling community came together in full force for the 2025 Annual General Meeting and Awards, and what a fantastic turnout it was!
With a packed room of passionate paddlers, volunteers, and supporters, it was a true celebration of the people who make our sport thrive.
A warm welcome
This year’s AGM saw strong interest in board nominations, leading to a vote for three elected director positions. We’re delighted to welcome Sal Weyers, Amy Ralph, and Josh Kippin to the Paddle WA Board. Their passion and experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow and support paddling across Western Australia.
They will join Jocelyn Sisson (President) and Leonie Cockman (both elected directors), and Rachel Burrows and Gillian Goby (independent directors). With this dynamic team, we’re confident Paddle WA is in excellent hands going into 2026!
A sad goodbye
At the same time, it is with heartfelt gratitude and sadness that we say goodbye to two long-serving board members, Ken Vidler and Andrew Hayden. Both have been stalwarts of the Paddle WA Board for many years, contributing tirelessly to the development and success of our sport. Their wisdom, dedication, and leadership have left a lasting legacy, and while words can’t fully express our appreciation, we thank them sincerely for everything they’ve done for Paddling in Western Australia.
We extend our sincere thanks to Swan Café for providing a delicious afternoon tea enjoyed by all.
Recognising our finest
Our Annual Awards are more than just a celebration. They are a showcase of the incredible talent, passion, and generosity that define the Paddle WA community.
This year, we received over 38 nominations across all categories, each one representing a story of personal achievement, tireless dedication, and selfless support for others.
With so many deserving individuals, choosing just one winner in each category was no easy task. The calibre of nominees speaks volumes about the strength and spirit of our paddling community, and we extend our deepest thanks to everyone who took the time to nominate someone special.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the Awards Committee, who generously gave their time, and wrestled with some tough decisions, to select this year’s winners from an outstanding pool of nominees
These awards are our opportunity to shine a light on those who go above and beyond, whether it’s through coaching, volunteering, guiding, or competing. They remind us that behind every successful event, every safe journey, and every personal milestone, there are people who give their time, energy, and heart to the sport.
Meet Our 2025 Nominees
Club coach of the year
- Coran Longwood
- Hunter Florisson
- Judy Darbyshire
- Nathan Vartesi
- Selma Alibegovic
- Shania Smee
instructor guide of the year
- Colin Priest
Contribution to sport
- Scott Florisson
- Sue McDougall
- Terry Bolland
- Warren Southwell
volunteer of the year
- Doug Hodson
- Martin Watson
- Veronica & Anita Harmaan
- Rebecca Cassidy
- Rebecca Florisson
- Shania Smee
- Michelle Major
- Warren Southwell
junior paddler of the year
- Alasdair Marsden
- Darcy Phillips
- Griffin Angelatos
- Lily Farrell
- Orlando Fonseca
- Sasha Small
master paddler of the year
- Eddie Stoelwinder
- Terry Bolland
senior paddler of the year
- Benjamin Pope
- Hunter Florisson
- Josh Kippin
- Yale Steinepreis
Congratulations to our 2025 Paddle WA Annual Award winners:
Club Coach of the Year
Shania Smee
for her inspiring leadership and commitment to athlete development.
Instructor/Guide of the Year
Colin Priest
recognised for his outstanding guidance and safety-first approach on the water.
Volunteer of the Year
Doug Hodson
whose tireless efforts behind the scenes keep our events running smoothly.
Contribution to Sport
Sue McDougall
honoured for her long-standing impact and advocacy for paddling in WA.
Junior Paddler of the Year
Orlando Fonseca
a rising star with impressive performances, sportsmanship and a great paddle ambassador.
Master Paddler of the Year
Eddie Stoelwinder
For his continued excellence and dedication to the sport. A true paddle legend!
Senior Paddler of the Year
Yale Steinepreis
recognised for her competitive spirit and leadership on and off the water.
The event was not only a celebration of achievements but also a reminder of the strength and unity within our paddling community.
Thank you to everyone who attended, voted, nominated, and cheered on our award winners.
Here’s to another year of adventure, growth, and connection on the water!
Those who make it possible
We also gratefully acknowledge the ongoing support of our valued partners, Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, Healthway, Lotterywest, and LiveLighter. Their incredible commitment to paddling in Western Australia enables us to grow, connect, and thrive as a community. Their contributions help us deliver meaningful programs, events, and opportunities for paddlers of all ages and abilities. Thank you for being part of our journey.
This year, we were thrilled to welcome two new partners to the Paddle WA family: The Federal Government’s Play Our Way program and the BetterMe Wellness App. Their incredible support of our innovative Pause for Life initiative marks an exciting new chapter for paddling in Western Australia. Pause for Life helps us share the power of paddling as a tool for health, wellness, and mental wellbeing: connecting people to nature, movement, and mindfulness. With the backing of these forward-thinking partners, we’re not only expanding our reach locally, but also positioning paddling as a globally recognised pathway to holistic wellbeing.
