Tim Roadley has instructed more than 1,000 children and adults in kayaking, canoe safety, and water awareness over the past 15 years.
Longtime Yarrawonga Mulwala Amateur Canoe Club member Tim Roadley has been awarded life membership of Canoeing Victoria in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sport and his local community.
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Tim has been a driving force at his local club since joining in 2005.
He quickly became involved in club leadership, joining the committee in 2006 and serving as club secretary ever since.
After several years of paddling, Tim became a flatwater instructor in 2008 and achieved his Level 1 Flatwater Canoe Coach qualification in 2010.
Since then, he has been a key organiser and instructor at the club’s weekly “come and try” sessions, held every Wednesday evening during daylight saving, as well as regular training and coaching sessions throughout the year.
Over nearly two decades, Tim has instructed more than 1,000 children and adults in kayaking, canoe safety, and water awareness, particularly the hazards of the Murray River and Lake Mulwala.
Beyond Yarrawonga, he has shared his expertise through the GMKIDS Goulburn Murray Kayak Instruction and Development Squad, helping paddlers from across the region.
Many of these participants have gone on to compete in major events such as the Murray Marathon.
After finishing playing football, Tim picked up the paddle and quickly turned kayaking into a passion.
Tim’s coaching has guided community members to success at school, state, national, and even world championship levels, while also inspiring many to take on endurance challenges like the Massive Murray Paddle.
Over the past decade, he has introduced or contributed to numerous innovative events in the region.
Tim Roadley was humbled to receive his Canoeing Victoria life membership award.
Reflecting on the honour, Tim said he was humbled.
"Who would have thought a challenge to the Murray Marathon after my football days were over would turn into such a passion," he said.
"I had no experience of paddling, but here on the Murray River, we have plenty of great paddlers to learn from.
“I get so much enjoyment from passing on what I have learned to new people, both young and old.
“Seeing some of them progress to national and even international competitions is incredibly rewarding."
Executive officer of Paddle Victoria, Mark Heggie, praised Tim’s dedication.
"Tim has worked for many years running participation programs, encouraging young people to engage with paddling," Mark said.
"He consistently adopts the highest standards and qualifications to run safe, fun events and works closely with other clubs to broaden opportunities for his paddlers.
“Tim and his paddlers bring great spirit to events, encouraging families to get involved, and he is a strong supporter of paddlers with disabilities, sourcing specialised equipment and providing tailored coaching."
Fellow club member and past president Jared Loughnan also commended Tim’s dedication and leadership.
"Tim has been integral in ensuring the canoe club is represented at promotional and exhibition days, encouraging new paddlers in the Yarrawonga area," Jared said.
"As a fellow instructor, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact Tim has made, not only on our club but on the wider community."
Jared highlighted Tim’s competitive achievements, including participation in Canoeing Victoria and NSW events, State and National Titles, multiple Massive Murray Paddle events, and the Australian Masters Games.
"He is a most deserving recipient of this Life Membership from Canoeing Victoria," Jared said.
