As I sat in the recliner wheelchair unable to move, all I could do was stare at the pale blue wall in front of me. In that moment, the reality of the consequences of my motorbike accident suddenly transformed from a vague detached thought, to the dark and painful realisation, that my life as I […]
I read a book recently that touched on why some people like to go on adventures or take on challenges. With our lives being so controlled and uniform each day—at least in the western world—some seek out challenges because they provide a level of uncertainty that makes life more exciting. I’ve been thinking about this […]
“Dave, there’s an opportunity going that might be up your alley” said Pete on the phone. “Really, what is it?” I ask suspiciously. “There’s a spot going for a 7-day trip sailing on a tall ship” “A tall ship ay? They’re not very wheelchair accessible.” “Yeah, but this one is. It was built by the […]
I love to get away from the familiar four walls for a while, although I don’t do it as much as I would like. It tends to be a long time between drinks for my big trips but I find, even for a quick fix, getting away for a few days recharges my psychological battery, making me feel happier, more […]
Do you remember a time when you were so excited, bursting with energy, unable to stop yourself from telling your family, partner, friends or even a total stranger what your next exciting goal or adventure would be? Even that crap job is now bearable because you have a wonderful and exciting goal to look forward […]
A few weeks ago I was out hand cycling and came across a guy who had a huge caster extending from the front of his wheelchair. “What an awesome idea!” I thought after a chat with him, immediately ordering the “FreeWheel” when I got home. I recently gave the FreeWheel its first proper test run […]
Some say to feel the true sense of adventure it needs to be spontaneous or with minimal planning allowing the uncertainty of how it might turn out, resembling a leaf’s unpredictable journey in the wind. I have to be honest, I do like the idea of taking off and letting the universe dictate how the […]
I can’t believe after two years since getting this idea to paddle down the Murray River, training over the last year stroke, after stroke, blisters and aching arms up and down the Yarra River, in the heat, cold, wet and sunshine I can’t believe it is about to happen. At times it just seemed like […]
Doing a big or small adventure is generally lots of fun, with some moments asking yourself “Why am I doing this?” Apart from being on the adventure, I also find the planning a very rewarding and fun part of the adventure process: researching, talking to people who inspire me to have a go and enter […]
A lot of people have said to me “How do you paddle a kayak?”, usually with a confused expression on their face. In this blog I will discuss my kayak modifications and how I paddle. The Kayak I have a Prijon Kodiac Sea Kayak, 5.2 metres long. Although I will be on a river and […]
