By Deanne Jeffers
ALL-ABILITIES advocate Julie Keillor, a volunteer with the Shepparton Canoe Club for 12 years, has been named Sport Volunteer of the Year at the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) AIS Sport Performance Awards (ASPAs) held in Melbourne.
Julie, a disability support worker, was chosen from approximately 150 nominees. Described by the Shepparton Canoe Club as the “embodiment of volunteerism,” one of her most significant achievements has been the growth of the club’s All Abilities Paddling Program.
Thanks to Julie’s dedication, the program has grown from three participants to 28 in just 12 months, with Julie ensuring each person receives a customised training plan and has equipment adapted to suit their individual needs.
“While I’m deeply honoured by this recognition, the real success story is seeing our all-abilities paddling community flourish. Every new participant who discovers the joy of paddling represents a barrier broken and a life enriched through sport,” Julie said.
This marks the third recent accolade for Julie’s work with the Shepparton Canoe Club. Earlier this year, she was named Paddle Victoria and Paddle Australia’s Volunteer of the Year.
Julie said she was grateful for the recognition but that the true success story lies in the growth of the program. She said, “While I’m deeply honoured by this recognition from Paddle Australia, the real success story is seeing our all-abilities paddling community learn new skills and confidence on the water.
“Every new participant who discovers the joy of paddling represents a barrier broken and a life enriched through sport.”
The success of the program lies in its ability to accommodate both complete beginners and more competitive athletes, showcasing the versatility of paddling for everyone. Julie emphasised that the Shepparton paddling program has the potential for further growth, with a conveniently located lake in the heart of the town, providing a safe and inviting environment for people to learn.
“One of our current paddlers initially spent five weeks just walking past and chatting with us,” she said. “She was terrified of water, but through patience and careful trust-building, I helped her overcome her fear.
“Now she’s a regular participant – it’s these transformative journeys that make our program special.”
“We never push anyone beyond their comfort zone. We start in shallow water, demonstrate safety features, and always promise to return to shore if someone feels uncomfortable.
“But almost invariably, after the first few meters, participants are eager to continue their paddling adventure. It brings me so much joy to see them enjoying canoeing and coming out of their comfort zone.”
The Shepparton Canoe Club runs two weekly sessions at 3pm at Victoria Park Lake: the Monday BIB (Bums in Boats) group and the Friday FART (Friday Afternoon Recreation Time). Julie encourages everyone to get “their bum in a boat” and try canoeing, as they are always seeking new members and volunteers.
On Friday, December 13, the club will host its Christmas party at the lake, where guests can try paddling. Canoes and kayaks will be decorated with fairy lights, illuminating the lake after sunset. For more information, visit the Shepparton Canoe Club’s Facebook page.
