Kayaking 2-Day Level 1 Course - Mactaquac, NB

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Kayaking Level 1 Course 19-20 August 2025 is now open. The application deadline is 16 July 2025.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Soldier On will be partnering with Paddle Canada Instructors from Sea Kayak Moncton to offer members in the Mactaquac Provincial Park Area a chance to get a Level One Certification in Kayaking over a 2-day period. During this opportunity participants will learn On-water Safety, basic paddling strokes, equipment and clothing, trip planning, navigation and route selection, rescues and so much more.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 14.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from New Brunswick who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Timings. 19-20 August 2025

• 0845hrs – Arrive at Mactaquac Provincial Park Marina, check in with Soldier On Regional Coordinator. Submit SDP documents of signed in advance, or review and sign forms on site;

• 0900hrs – Introductions, Course outline, Certification, Housekeeping;
• 0930-1200hrs – Instruction begins with Theory and Practical;
• 1200-1300hrs – Lunch, provided by service provider;
• 1300-1630hrs – Instruction continues with more theory and practical; and
• 1630hrs – Group Photo (1st day), then activity ends and participants complete post event questionnaire (2nd day) and depart.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants who live within 2 hours of the event location are advised that transportation and meals during transport will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event

Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations for those who live beyond the 2 hour driving distance of the event location. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 6-8 hours of moderate paced activities for 2 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. 

All participants must weigh under 250 lbs, in accordance with the sport provider’s equipment regulations. Participants should be comfortable sitting in a kayak for extended periods, wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) while in and around water, and paddling without violating any existing Medical Employment Limitations (MELs). Participants will be required to enter and exit the kayak from the shallow shoreline water. These requirements are in place to ensure participant safety and support a positive group experience on the water.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. Applicants are advised that for those who require meals accommodations will be staying at Canadian Armed Forces bases/facilities, and thus they may be exposed to a day-to-day military environment. Applicants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed in the accommodations, and will be required to share accommodations.