BY OLI GOELDNER
Almost 400 paddlers will take to Newcastle Harbour on 17 January forming the state's largest regatta for outrigger canoes.
Organised by Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club, the Pasha Dasha Regatta will bring the ancient Polynesian tradition, now turned popular sport, to our local waters with teams from across NSW to go head to head in competition.
Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club Vice President Vaughan Hakaraia says it's an exciting event for the community.
"This is a big event for our club," he said.
"It definitely takes a lot of organising and it's all run by volunteers.
"And, we're so fortunate we've got a lot of club members who really pitch in and help lighten the load, and it's really well supported by the community."
The event is one of 19 events to have shared in more than $150,000 from Newcastle Council's annual event sponsorship program.
Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the funding program helps support the growth and sustainability of the local visitor economy.
"City of Newcastle is committed to getting behind events at all levels, from local community activations to nationally recognised events, helping us drive visitation and deliver meaningful economic benefits to the city," she said.
"We're thrilled to welcome hundreds of competitors, their families and supporters to Newcastle for this weekend's event, which will also provide a fantastic spectacle for locals to watch and enjoy."
