Meet our paddlers
The Rip Swim paddlers play a vital role in guiding teams across from Point Nepean to Point Lonsdale. They also keep them safe and alert our boats to any problems during the crossings. So, we are very grateful to them for their hard work!
Eugene Docherty
Eugene is our original paddler since 2014. He has been on almost every single trip. He has also swum “The Rip”. Eugene is an amazing man with boundless energy and enthusiasm. When he is not leading swimmers across “The Rip”, he is busy surfing, Bee keeping, fixing cars and riding a skateboard. Not bad for a man in his 70's!
He has also swum the Pier to Pub 30 times!
We love having him as part of our team.
Jane Stacey
Jane Stacey has been involved in Surf Lifesaving for almost 27 years. She loves the ocean. She started swimming in the open water with her dad and this led to her involvement in lifesaving and even meeting her husband Marcus - who happens to be our paramedic! Her hobbies include surf boat rowing, hiking, gardening and traveling. During the day she is a Leading Teacher (Student Wellbeing and Engagement) in a special education setting, mother of two awesome boys. We love her smile and friendly nature, as well as her skills.
Tony Castricum
We call Tony “The Terminator” because he paddles to the start line at Point Nepean (from Portsea), does the crossing and then paddles back! Tony works with CEOs to improve their communication skills. He loves spending time with his family. His mission is to get as many people into surf ski paddling as possible, so watch out!