28 April 2008

N E W S R E L E A S E

Aussie Kayakers Return for Grand Unveiling

They became famous for crossing the Tasman Sea by kayak – and now they’re back to help celebrate the record-breaking effort.

James Castrission and Justin Jones will be at Ngamotu Beach, New Plymouth this Wednesday (30 APRIL) to unveil a plaque that has been erected to mark their feat, which resulted in world records for the longest ocean crossing by a two-man kayak and the first successful kayak voyage across the Tasman Sea.

Thousands turned up to the beach to see them land on Sunday 13 January, and New Plymouth District Mayor Peter Tennent hopes to see another good crowd there from 11.45am this Wednesday.

“The locals have really taken James and Justin into their hearts so it would be great to have a sea of people at the beach again when the two of them unveil the plaque,” says the Mayor.

“The boys will be arriving at the beach by waka and they’ll have a chance to address the crowd as part of the ceremony.

“It’s just fantastic to have them back here. James and Justin put their all into that trans-Tasman crossing and the plaque will stand there for all time to remind future generations that absolutely anything is possible when you give it your all.”

The pair’s crossing from Forster in New South Wales to New Plymouth took 62 days, covering 3,325km.

James and Justin are in New Zealand to receive the Tourism Australia Spirit of Mateship Award, in conjunction with Kiwi Mike Hanning. James, Justin and Mike will be presented with this award at the Spirit of Mateship Award Gala dinner on Wednesday evening (30 APRIL) in Auckland.

“Their landing at Ngamotu Beach threw the spotlight on New Plymouth and Taranaki, and highlighted the adventurous spirit and great mateship that Kiwis and Aussies share,” says Mayor Pete.

“This unveiling in New Plymouth is our way of saying ‘good on you mate’ to James and Justin.”

ENDS

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