The extended travel team from The West Australian, along with their family and friends, celebrated the Australia Day long weekend with a delightful and relaxing "paddle party" at Matilda Bay. This close-knit group of travel writers and their loved ones didn't have to venture far to enjoy their spare time together, opting for a local kayaking adventure that highlighted the beauty of Perth's waterways.
A Perfect Summer's Day on the Water
On a sunny Saturday, nine kayaks were lined up on the beach, ready for the team to embark on a leisurely paddle across the bay. The participants included writers Leyanne Baillie, Jessie Stoelwinder, and Megan French, as well as cruising writer Michael Ferrante. Also joining the fun was Penny Thomas, the writer and host of The Pod Well Travelled, who is currently on maternity leave, and recently retired writer and photographer Mogens Johansen. The group was accompanied by their regular composer and musician Steve Richter, along with supportive family and friends who encourage their work.
Celebrating Team Spirit and Community
As they paddled through the calm waters of Matilda Bay, the team engaged in friendly chats and soaked in the serene atmosphere of a perfect summer's day. This event wasn't just about travel or work; it was a chance for the like-minded and kind-hearted individuals to bond and appreciate each other's company outside of their professional roles. The paddle party served as a reminder of the importance of community and shared experiences, especially during national celebrations like Australia Day.
The day was captured in photos, showing the team ready to paddle and enjoying the scenic views, with credits to Jessie Stoelwinder and Megan French for the supplied images. This gathering exemplified how travel writers, who often explore distant destinations, can find joy and relaxation in their own backyard, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and support within their team.
