SUP Vic: Stand-Up Paddleboarding Victoria Since 2009

SUP Vic has been at the heart of Melbourne’s stand-up paddleboarding community since the sport’s early days. From grassroots paddling to world-class competition, the club has evolved through the ever-changing SUP landscape – while keeping fun and inclusivity at its core. We caught up with Warwick Lee, one of SUP Vic’s founding members, to find out more…

What is SUP Vic?

SUP Vic is a not-for-profit paddleboard club based in Melbourne, Australia. It was founded in 2009 by a few passionate fellow paddlers. I was fortunate to be on the inaugural committee. Our club is one of the very early adopters of the sport – between 2011 and 2017 we had a really healthy membership and some amazing paddlers who were very competitive and successful during the halcyon years. Australia was the pre-eminent country on an international level, so we got to surf / race / compete in world class fields. Currently our club is going through a rebuilding phase courtesy of Covid and the ever-changing landscape that is SUP. Our aim is to continue to make the sport of SUP more inclusive at every level – and most of all, enjoyable! 

How did you start SUP Paddleboarding?

Funny story. My interest was piqued when one of the staff in my retail business (windsurf / kitesurf / snowboard / surf / skate) pointed out this new trend; “stand-up paddlesurfing”. The year was 2006 and you couldn’t actually buy a ‘SUP’ in Australia. I borrowed a 12' tandem Mal (remember those?) from a mate and made a paddle from an old windsurf mast. The rest is history!

What draws you personally to stand-up paddleboarding?

I’ve always enjoyed the physical and mental challenges of embarking on a new sport. I’ve been fortunate in my lifetime to have been at the forefront of many different sports, SUP included, so teaching myself with no support network seemed natural. As the sport started to mature, I was fiercely drawn to competitions and racing. These days, I’m in cruise mode and paddle any discipline that suits my mood. It’s amazing how a good paddle session can clear your mind. 

What advice would you give someone who’s paddleboarding for the first time?

Take a lesson from a qualified instructor on a decent quality board and paddle… Like Red Paddle Co! Relax, breathe and stay loose. If you fall, it’s only water. 

How can someone get involved with SUP Vic?

Jump onto our Facebook @standuppaddlevictoria, there are always so many activities on offer year-round. Or go to our website SUP VIC – Stand-Up Paddleboarding Victoria.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I’ve been involved with the sport since its inception in Australia – the people I’ve met, places I’ve travelled to and the lifelong friends I’ve made speak volumes about what SUP has to offer. I feel blessed to have found this sport and will paddle as long as I can stand