Event Logistics and important information
Support Crew
The major focus of paddler support crews is to ensure the health and wellbeing of paddlers at all times during the event.
Support crews provide vital assistance to all paddlers throughout the event. Family and friends need to provide basic first aid, food and transport support as well as much-needed motivation for the paddlers as they battle their way down the mighty Murray.
The hydration, nutrition and first aid of the paddler should be the first priority of support crews, as well as being a means of transportation for equipment (such as crafts) and supplies.
We strongly suggest that support crews take time to plan the nutrition, hydration and sun care needs of all members of the crew. It is also vital that crews are well equipped with a comprehensive First Aid kit.
The support crew are responsible for the first-aid of their paddlers and each support crew must have a certified first aider and carry a stocked first aid kit - we recommend the your first aid kit contains every item on this list (click this link for the file).
Checkpoints
Checkpoints play a vital role in this event - relay teams swap at least one paddler at each checkpoint, participants can collect supplies and touch base with their support crews, first aid is available and more. Each day there are three or four checkpoints along the route.
At the water’s edge, conditions range from open, sandy beaches to steep, slippery banks. Depending on how fast paddlers travel between checkpoints, support crews may find themselves waiting in the one spot for an hour or more.
The following information will help crews prepare for checkpoint conditions.
Communication / Mobile Phones
Based on an analysis of the different check-points and the information from the telcos, we have determined that the following set-up is the most cost effective with the widest mobile coverage.
Every check-point tested with a minimum of 3 bars with this phone / antenna combination. If you do not have these phones then please refer to the latest Telstra Blue Tick phones for rural use.
Recommended Phone - TELSTRA T96 with external antenna
Vehicles
Checkpoints are often crowded and parking, space and availability of shade differs at each location.
Due to the restricted access to checkpoints, we request that all vehicles are left in designated parking areas, or on the roadside as directed by the traffic management officials and walk in to the checkpoints.
Limited vehicle access also applies to support crews dropping off or picking up crafts.
There is not enough parking or loading space to allow 200 + vehicles close access to the checkpoints or at the start or finish lines.
Please keep this in mind as you make your event preparations (a boat trolley is very handy!).
Keeping Cool
Shade is in short supply in most cases, so land crew need to ensure they are carrying adequate water and sun protection to protect themselves from the elements.
Consideration is needed when setting up shade areas so that all support crew can access the water’s edge to assist their teams.
If you choose to cool down by going for a swim, please do not swim in areas where the boats are coming; instead move further upstream or downstream.
Remember the Murray River can have very strong currents and precaution should be used if you choose to enter the water. Adults are responsible for supervising those in their care.
River Closure Times
River closure times are strictly enforced due to the agreement with NSW Maritime for the use of the river.
It is imperative that all support crews and paddlers understand the river closure procedure in the lead up to the Massive Murray Paddle.
Support crews and paddlers must be aware, that if paddlers do not make it to a checkpoint by the advertised checkpoint closure time, they will have to retire from the race for that day.
