Meet the Team
Two Paddlers. Two Microphones.
One Unstoppable Duo.
We're Dougie and Hando - the voices you hear when the starter calls "Paddles Ready." We've spent our lives in this sport, and now we bring it to yours.
The Paddles Ready Story
It started with a chance meeting in Hong Kong in 1996.
Dougie had just moved there for work when he met Nick on the shores of Stanley, fresh from a training session with the Bondi Diggers.
"I remember thinking these guys remind me of my surf lifesaving days," Dougie recalls. Curious, he jumped into a boat that very afternoon.
Over the next three decades the two would paddle together, race against each other, represent Queensland, and build a lifelong friendship through the sport.
Nick was the first to step behind the commentary microphone. Three years ago he asked Dougie to join him in the booth, bringing a technical athlete's perspective to race coverage. What followed was a whirlwind — calling state titles, national events, and eventually travelling to Germany to commentate the World Championships in Berlin alongside a full broadcast production team.
That experience confirmed something both had already begun to realise: paddlesports deserved a stronger media voice.
From that idea, Paddles Ready was born — a global commentary and media platform dedicated to telling the stories of the athletes, teams, and races that make paddlesports so compelling.
Book Dougie & Hando for Your Next Event
Whether it's a 20-crew local regatta or a 200-crew international championship, Dougie and Hando bring the energy and professionalism your event deserves.
Why Hire Us
What You Get with Paddles Ready
Professional Live Commentary
Two experienced commentators who know every crew, every distance, every race format. We bring broadcast-quality energy to your PA system and livestream.
Livestream Production
We bring the gear and the know-how. Multi-camera livestream setup with graphics, replays, and real-time race data overlays.
Global Audience
Our social media following and YouTube channel bring thousands of eyes to your event that wouldn't otherwise be watching. We amplify your reach.
Crew Research
We do our homework. Before every event, we research every crew so we can call names, tell stories, and make every team feel seen.
Social Content
Race highlights, crew shout-outs, and event recaps shared across our channels - giving your event a second life online long after the last race.
Genuine Passion
We're not hired guns reading from a script. We're paddlers who love this sport. That comes through in every call, every interaction, every post.