Goochi said..
If you are starting out, try the river first on a 18kt+ day - it is a great way of getting into downwinding and easy to organise.
...
meet up with other paddlers and learn tips - everyone is very friendly and open.
That's what I was thinking with a 20kt Northerly forecast, starting at the Narrows. I've surf skied that route a number of times, unfortunately not as a DW and believe it's fairly safe.
My plan is family and rain dependent!
Thanks for the SUPWA information. I learned a lot at SUPP BOP training ... and also learned that there is still a lot to learn!