Blue Therapy SUP: The Outback Paddle School Inspiring a New Generation of Stand up Paddlers

In the rural heart of Central Queensland at the small town of Biloela, Blue Therapy SUP continues to grow as a unique and uplifting community hub. Founded by ASI SUP Technical Coach & Instructor Chris McDowell, in September 2023, the school has become a vibrant space where children, families and adults discover confidence, connection and the joy of being on the water. 

From UK SUP Racer to Australian Community Leader 

Chris’s paddleboarding journey began in the UK, where she quickly became known for her racing achievements and her passion for coaching. After only four racetraining sessions, she entered the 17.5 km Windermere race and finished “2nd overall and first in my age category.” 

Her enthusiasm for helping others led her to teach paddlers of all ages, support new instructors, and train with the Northern SUP Race Team. SUP also became a powerful form of personal wellbeing, which she describes as “Blue Therapy.” 

When Chris migrated to Australia to be with family, she brought her experience, her ASI qualifications, and her commitment to sharing the benefits of paddleboarding with new communities. 

Creating a SUP School in the Outback 

Biloela is a small country town, 90kms inland from the coast and Gladstone. There isn’t a huge population, many people are transient. Nor are there water sports amenities, other than the local swimming pool and dam. There is pretty much year-round sunshine and dry conditions, making it ideal for paddling  

Chris set about setting up at Lake Callide a man-made dam, of about 12 kms in length and just outside of town. It may be far from the coast, but Chris saw an opportunity to introduce something fresh and exciting to the region. 

Blue Therapy SUP, an ASI Accredited SUP School, now offers a welcoming environment for people of all ages and abilities, including children, adults, homeschool groups and participants with additional needs. Chris has taught everyone from young kids to an 80 year old, always with a focus on safety, confidence and enjoyment. 

2026: A Year of Growth, Community and New Achievements 

The past year has seen Blue Therapy SUP flourish with new programs, new paddlers and new community partnerships. 

A thriving Kids SUP Club 

Chris’s Kids SUP Club has become a highlight of the week for many local families. With between 2–7 children attending each Sunday, the club focuses on skills, confidence, teamwork and fun. 

Her regular young paddlers have become “really strong, competent paddlers,” with one now assisting in sessions — a proud milestone for the school. 

Homeschool PE SUP sessions 

Chris has spent the past eight months delivering weekly SUP based physical education for homeschooled children. 
“They learn so much more than stand up paddleboarding,” she says, with each session building resilience, coordination, social skills and outdoor awareness. 

Women’s empowerment through SUP 

Her “Couch to 5km SUP” sessions have introduced local women to the sport, helping them discover strength and confidence on the water. 
“Everything is possible with the right mindset.” 

Community outreach and regional programs 

Chris delivered introduction sessions for an outdoor adventure group in Bundaberg, with twelve participants across two sessions — many of whom have continued paddling. 

Media recognition 

ABC Drive Time Radio featured Chris’s story, intrigued by “how a grandmother from the UK came to be a SUP Instructor with a school in Biloela.”  
A Brisbane media company later transformed the interview into a dynamic video montage of her SUP journey. 

Support from the SUP industry 

Honu Boards Australia has provided discounted equipment for her students, which Chris describes as “awesome,” helping her continue to deliver highquality sessions for kids and adults. 

Still Racing, Still Training, Still Inspiring 

Alongside running the school, Chris continues to train for SUP racing. She completed the Sunshine Coast Tri Series, placing 3rd overall in her age group, and earned an invitation to represent Queensland at Nationals. 

She is currently preparing for the Paddle Queensland Marathon Championships at Lake Samsonvale and looks forward to connecting with fellow paddlers. 

Looking Ahead: Building a Lasting SUP Legacy 

Blue Therapy SUP has become a cherished part of the Biloela community — a place where children grow in confidence, adults discover new strengths, and families connect with nature in a meaningful way. 

Chris continues to expand her programs, nurture young paddlers, and share the benefits of Blue Therapy with anyone willing to step onto a board. 

Her story is a reminder that passion, community spirit and a love of the outdoors can create something truly special — even in the most unexpected places. 

About ASI 

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. Established in 2003, with our head office in Bondi Beach, Sydney Australia, ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, international career opportunities and adventure.