Flatwater (Inland) Skills Award

Flatwater Skills (ACAS 2008)

Holders of the Flatwater Skills Award have demonstrated that they can competently paddle a kayak and/or canoe during a trip, as part of a group of peers, on flat, sheltered, undemanding water. This Award is a pre-requisite to becoming an AC Flatwater Guide or Instructor.

Prerequisite

None

Skill component

• Demonstrate the ability to control a craft in moderate conditions on flat, sheltered water.
• Launch and land efficiently
• Paddle the craft efficiently in moderate winds:
  • – forwards, backwards, sideways and turning
  • – using correct forward, reverse, draw and sweep strokes
• Show efficient use of low supports
• Capsize and swim craft ashore
• Competently participate in simple rescues as rescuee and rescuer
• Competently accept a tow.

Knowledge component

• Demonstrate the ability to plan and navigate a 3 hour flatwater paddle:
• Store, operate and maintain appropriate safety equipment
• Select appropriate equipment and clothing with consideration of sun sense and hypothermia
• Navigate a 3 hour flatwater paddle
• Interpret weather for a flatwater environment.

Experience component

Produce a verified log showing at least:

• Six trips of a minimum of three hours duration.

Communication component

Demonstrate the ability to maintain effective communication with a group.

Leadership component

None