About Us
Paddle & Portage Canoes is proud to be Australia's only importer of Swift Canoes and Esquif Canoes from Canada, Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks from the UK, and Wenonah Canoes from North America.
We've had the pleasure of introducing thousands of Australians to these fine brands. If you've been paddling recently, chances are that you've seen one of our canoes or kayaks getting around. We can say with confidence that comes from more than a decade of serious on-water testing, that our canoes and kayaks are perfectly-suited to Australian waters and are some of the finest boats available in the world.
We are based in Kangaroo Valley NSW, with some of Australia's best paddling available within half an hour of our shop and warehouse. Not only do we sell the finest watercraft in the world, but we provide hire, instruction & tours in the region through our sister company Valley Outdoors.
Travis Frenay
Paddle & Portage Canoes' owner & founder, Travis Frenay, has been a professional paddling instructor for 23 years and was the lead teacher of canoeing at TAFE NSW Lithgow for 16 years on their award-winning Outdoor Leadership courses. He has the pleasure of working with a wide network of amazingly talented guides and instructors and has been fortunate enough to select a few to work with him at Paddle & Portage Canoes / Valley Outdoors.
Daniel Rice
Straight out of school Dan enrolled in a Certificate 3 and 4 in Outdoor Education/Recreation while guiding in his spare time. There isn't a boat that Dan hasn't paddled or mountain that he hasn't climbed. He has over 12 years experience in the outdoor adventure industry and takes pleasure in chatting with customers to ensure they are getting the right boat for their needs.
Dylan Jones
Dylan is an outdoor professional with over 20 years of experience leading and teaching groups in all manner of outdoor activities in the Australian bush. He's also a qualified trainer and assessor. Whilst he primarily keeps his attention on the Valley Outdoors side of the business, he certainly helps to steer the team in the right direction with Paddle & Portage as well.
Sarah Frenay
Co-owner of the company with her husband, Travis, Sarah's background was in fitness and customer service before she joined the company. A paddling legend in her own right, Sarah is the admin powerhouse of Paddle & Portage Canoes. You'll likely encounter her as the friendliest person you've ever spoken to in person or on the phone.
