Meet Cameron Douglas, ASI SUP Instructor, Tasmania, Australia

Read about Cameron’s journey, his love for the stunning Tasmanian landscapes, and the vibrant SUP community he’s building—one paddle stroke at a time.

What is your background?

I live in New Norfolk, Tasmania, just a short 30-minute drive from the capital city of Hobart. My background includes general labouring, and I’m also a church minister, a husband, and a proud father of two. These days, I also run a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) school.

New Norfolk is a stunning location for SUP. The tranquil river meanders through towering, tree-lined mountains that rise 200 to 300 meters high. In autumn, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking as the foliage along the riverbanks transforms into a symphony of vibrant colors—a truly magical experience for any paddler. 

What got you involved in the sport?

We visited a mate in Tathra, south coast NSW.  I was 39 at the time and had never surfed in any form.  My friend Dave says “come for a SUP, I’ll teach you.”

The water temperature in October on the south coast of NSW is far from warm, so I wasn’t keen on the idea of falling in as I’d not planned on swimming.  Needless to say, I stayed up and fell in love with the sport.

After, I went back home to the Cronulla  (Sydney), I found a cheap second-hand board and taught myself to SUP on the Georges River. After 5 weeks of teaching myself, a mate dragged me out into the surf at Cronulla. As they say,  the rest is history.

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

I was helping a mate at Cronulla Ferries, where we organised stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and BBQ tours along the Port Hacking River.

They recommended ASI as the ideal accreditation for instructors and guides. It's reassuring to know that we hold worldwide accreditation, and having such solid support behind us is truly encouraging.

What are you doing now ?

Operating the Derwent Valley Stand-Up Paddleboard School in New Norfolk.  I get to spend my days paddling on the Derwent River, surrounded by serene farmland and majestic mountains,- which is nothing short of breathtaking.

What do you like about being an instructor?

Over the past eight years that I have been a SUP Instructor, the greatest joy for me has been witnessing the transformation of individuals with low confidence.

They may struggle initially, but within an hour, they manage to not only get on the board but also stand up, find their rhythm, and relax into their stroke. They completely forget they're floating down the river. By the end of the session, they leave with radiant smiles and a renewed sense of confidence.

Some even go on to book six sessions, steadily building their skills and self-belief.

Tell us about memorable experiences,  you've had while instructing.  

Tassie is still growing in its SUP community. Mostly along the coasts or south of Hobart. Many people say ‘why would you SUP in New Norfolk?’.  But then they come out here and see the scenery both of the river and the surrounding area, the fresh water and peacefulness; they’re sold.

In 2024, one of our clients achieved something truly remarkable—she became the first women to paddle the Murray River unassisted after completing six sessions with us. It was an incredible accomplishment and a testament to her determination and the skills she developed.

About ASI
ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  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, global opportunities, and adventure.
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