Hi

I have just finished my lessons and now trying to get the hang of water starts. I did my lessons at Woodmans Point but my instructor recommended the river and specifically Point Walter in the mornings (SE / SSE winds). I was starting to stand for a few meters but waves / swell at Woodies just made progressing harder.

Got any advice for someone just starting out and wanting the calm of the river? Where would you recommend and what wind direction should I be looking for?

Thanks

Woodies is a good place to learn, probably better than the river. The waves are pretty small... The river has very small beaches, with trees, powerlines and roads waiting to snare you. Also the wind is much gustier on the river.

Advice for Point Walter - lots of sharp rocks if you walk out too close to the shore. Go down the sandbar a bit and downwind of the other kiters. Don't miss the end of the sandbar though!

You could also try Melville Beach in Applecross in a SW. Start downwind of the big gum tree.

Check out the WAKSA website also www.waksa.org.au/locations/