Pacific Celebrates Double State Titles and Launch of the Paddle Excellence Program
Pacific Lutheran College is celebrating another milestone in its proud kayaking history, with its student athletes crowned 2025 School Marathon Kayaking State Champions on Tuesday 17th June and 2025 School Sprint Marathon Kayaking State Champions on Friday 17th October.
This year, an impressive 48 students from Years 4–12 represented the College, earning a remarkable 69 medals across both singles and doubles events. These achievements highlight the exceptional commitment, resilience and strength of Pacific’s kayaking team and reinforce the College’s reputation as one of Queensland’s premier kayaking schools.
Throughout the year, students trained both on and off the water, supported by a dedicated coaching team. In 2025, the College’s kayaking program reached a new level with the introduction of the Pacific Paddle Excellence Program, a structured initiative providing extended training sessions and greater access to high-level athlete development. Training is held at Lake Kawana, with sessions running on Mondays and Thursday afternoons and Wednesday mornings for the K1 excellence students.
As part of Pacific’s commitment to athlete development, students’ progress from beginner-level TK1 boats to more advanced K1 and K2 craft as they build skill and confidence, with opportunities to race in K4 boats mirroring Olympic formats.
Pacific’s kayaking team trains year-round, building toward two major competitions — the School Marathon Kayaking State Championships in Term 2 and the State Sprint Championships in Term 4 — competing across TK1, TK2 K1, K2, ski and C1 divisions.
While competition success is an important goal, the Pacific Kayaking Program delivers much more. Students develop physical strength, aerobic fitness, coordination and balance, while also gaining confidence, resilience, independence and teamwork — qualities that serve them well beyond the water.
The outstanding success of the Pacific Paddle Excellence Program and the 2025 championship victories are the result of countless hours of dedication from an entire community. From early morning training sessions to weekend competitions and long hours on the road, Pacific students have demonstrated extraordinary perseverance. Behind them stands a dedicated team of specialist coaches, passionate staff, and a network of supportive parents, all playing a vital role in shaping one of the Sunshine Coast’s most successful and inclusive school kayaking programs.
“This year’s success is a testament to the commitment of our students, coaches and families,” said Mr Gary Graves, Pacific Kayaking Coordinator and Head of Senior HPE. “The launch of the Pacific Paddle Excellence Program has elevated our training environment, providing structured pathways for every level of paddler — from those just starting out to those chasing state and national selection. It’s been incredible to see our students grow not just as athletes, but as confident, resilient young people who truly embody the Pacific spirit.”
As Pacific Lutheran College looks toward 2026 and beyond, the College remains steadfast in its commitment to growing one of the Sunshine Coast’s strongest and most inclusive school kayaking programs. With upgraded boats, extended training opportunities and deeper partnerships with local, state, and national bodies, Pacific is paddling full speed into a future of kayaking excellence.