Paddlers' quest for Passage first

Above: The Khaleesi, from Dragon Boat Pumicestone, during the Classic Boat Regatta at Bribie. Picture Bob Goodwin

Four dragon boats and their crews are preparing to set out from Bribie Island on a first for the Pumicestone Passage.

The fleet is aiming to paddle 37kms from Sylvan Beach to Caloundra Power Boat Club – a feat never attempted before by dragon boats.

Youngest paddler will be Tyler Pearce at 22, while the oldest participants are in their 70s.

The Enduro Quest, a joint initiative by Dragon Boat Pumicestone and Maroochy Sea Serpents, will leave Bribie Island at 8am on Saturday.

Organisers plan to reach Caloundra by 1pm with the final 10kms, along Pumicestone Passage, being a race between crews.

Coast Guard Caloundra — QF4 and Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island will be supporting the dragon boats on their quest.

Dragon Boat Pumicestone and Maroochy Sea Serpents plan to make it an annual event and a 'bucket list' item for dragon boaters worldwide.

The Enduro Quest is described as “a perfect blend of sport, nature, and shared purpose that is set to leave a lasting impression on everyone who takes part”.

With a backdrop of the Glass House Mountains, paddlers will have a physical challenge and see natural beauty, without encroaching on sensitive ecosystems.

All profits from the event will be evenly distributed between Coast Guard Caloundra - QF4 and VMR Bribie.