Sport
21 February, 2024
Milestone marked for dragon boat race club
About 100 guests from across the Moreton Bay region braved some wild weather at Sylvan Beach Esplanade on Saturday, February 10, as the Dragon Boat Pumicestone club celebrated its first birthday.
With the club growing from 22 to 94 members in one year, the club’s president Michelle Hanton said the birthday event was highly successful as it demonstrated the strength of the membership and the community support.
Twelve individuals arrived by 10am for the come-and-try session, but the high winds and high tide conditions resulted in the session taking place on dry land rather than the water.
Safety aspects were taught, in addition to the basics of stroke technique and commands.
“The smiling faces of attendees attest to the fun they had, and several have already signed up for a Dragon Pass, which provides them with a free 28-day trial,” Michelle said.
"I feel so welcomed into a group of amazing people led by the most inspirational leader" - Janet Johns
Following the blustery and rainy start to the day, Michelle said the rain had eased by 10am before the sun fortunately came out by 11.30am for the official celebrations.
Michelle gave a speech, as did Terry Young (Federal MP for Longman) and Brooke Savige (City of Moreton Bay councillor and club patron).
The club patron was also involved in cutting the birthday cake, as was the club’s vice-president Martin Kinross and oldest member, Margaret White.
Other attendees included Ali King (State MP for Pumicestone), and representatives from Bribie Island Sailing Club, Bombora Outriggers, Mahalo Outriggers, Bribie Aquatic Community Events (BACE), Maritime Marine Rescue Bribie Island, Wallum Action Group, and 101.5FM radio.
Michelle said some club members would again take part in competitions, after the club earned a first placing and two third placings in its first 12 months.
The club’s president said dragon boat racing enabled participants to start at any fitness level.
“It is low-impact, (and) you can decide exactly how far you would like to push yourself, with the club offering pathways to the elite level of the sport,” Michelle said.
Some of the members, including Janet Johns, had never been in a dragon boat until 12 months ago.
“Now, I feel so welcomed into a group of amazing people led by the most inspirational leader,” Janet said.
“I’m very blessed; thanks everyone.
