The good --Some epic sesons can be had in the storm swell .
The bad---- it is cold wetsuit needed ( coco nuts to pea nuts in 0.2 of a second) . The water is like a washing machine . You get out and it still cold . Did i mention the water is cold . boots are great more so than gloves or hoodey but when you crash and have to body drag you wish you had them because ... you gest it!! it is bloody cold . Save some coin go for a trip for a week up north cape flattery or port dugless after a week up there it settles you back down and then you will be ready for summer to come . I live in hervey bay and i hate the cold water can only assume for people down the coast from here that it will be really cold . Good luck do some weather watching and only go out to your capabillitys . And remember to cover up as 2 mins in the cold stuff can be bad for your health NO jokes

Honestly I think the worst part about the cold is the part where you have to get out of the car and get changed. Actually getting in the water isn't the problem for me as I am normally too excited and concentrating on my kite to worry about the temperature.

I was always taught to rig to the top end of the wind also.

Have you're wits about you, watch out for incoming fronts and come in, don't kite alone ( there's always someone else like you)
If you do stay out during the squalls or get caught out Edge,edge,edge and head out to sea.
Get off the beach as quick as you can and give yourself a lot more room than you normally need.

Know your gear is in good knick and that everything functions.

And if in doubt don't go out! 40 knot winds are serious and things can go wrong before you can think about safety's etc.

Jasonlk321 said...
Thanks for the info guys. Pretty much got enough kit to see me through the cold temperatures, thermal rashie under steamer & boots etc. Guess the adrenaline & focusing on the equipment will take the mind off the wind chill factor. But not sure how I'm going to cope with the nuts retreating like a frightened tortoise.

After reading bit more info on winter conditions, I'll be leaving the Zephyr under lock & key. I've been out & enjoyed some gusty conditions in Sydney but I understand the gusts in winter can go from 20 to 40knts. Looks like my 8m will be getting used more than the 12m.

For anyone that's intersted found this very detailed article on SB www.seabreeze.com.au/Articles/Kitesurfing/Winter-Weather-Warning-for-new-Kitesurfers_2879690.aspx

Which area do you Kite?

Nick, cheers for the great advice. It has registered.


Kitcho, I'm always down first groin at Botany. Occasionally will go to Dolls Point. Although may look at going to Kurnell this Sunday because going to be mostly NW. It's definitely a Zephyr weekend.


Steve & co, thanks for the advise & info on weather in coming months. I will definitely call the bat phone when in doubt. Good to know I can also use the Zephyr, would be heartbreaking to keep it locked away for so many months. Think it could actually be illegal.