Newcastle’s harbour is set to come alive this weekend as the state’s largest outrigging regatta, Pasha Dasha, returns to the city.
Hosted by the Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club, the 15th annual event has been a fixture on the calendar since 2010.
It will attract close to 400 paddlers from organisations across NSW coastline, turning Horseshoe Beach and surrounding waters into a high-energy celebration of teamwork and endurance.
For club vice-president Vaughan Hakaraia, Pasha Dasha is far more than a race.
Having lived in Australia for 25 years, he brings his Polynesian heritage to the heart of the club.
“Our ancestors used similar canoes to travel long distances,” Hakaraia said.
“They relied on balance, skill and trust in one another and that connection is still there every time we paddle.”
The regatta features single-person OC1 and V1 races, two-person OC2 events and six-person OC6 crews.
The headline act, Pasha Dasha, is a changeover extravaganza with three six-kilometre legs, allowing clubs to rotate paddlers or take on the full distance.
“It’s a great sport in that nature… where if you want to be part of a team or be by yourself, you can,” Hakaraia said.
He admitted the regatta in Newcastle was a point of pride.
“We’re really proud to showcase our city,” Hakaraia said.
“Newcastle is a working harbour, but it’s also a place where people connect with the ocean.”
City of Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said Pasha Dasha reflected the city’s commitment to supporting diverse, community-led events.
“This regatta celebrates culture, sport and connection to place,” she explained.
“It brings people onto the water and into public spaces in a way that is welcoming and uniquely Newcastle.
“Newcastle thrives when we back local clubs who create opportunities for people to come together, try something new and share their culture with the wider community.”
Pasha Dasha is also one of 19 events sharing more than $155,000 through council’s annual event sponsorship program.
For Hakaraia, the goal for the weekend is simple.
“We want everyone to feel welcome,” he said.
“Whether you’re racing, volunteering or watching from the shore, it’s about being part of something special.”
Pasha Dasha take place at Newcastle Harbour and Horseshoe Beach on Saturday 17 January, with spectators encouraged to come along.
Meanwhile, upcoming sporting events include the sixth action-packed edition of the Beach 5s rugby festival, which will be staged at Nobbys Beach from 24-26 January.
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