I want to let you all know that unfortunately Shern Timmins has had to step down from the committee and the position of secretary this season. After serving on the committee last season I wish to thank her for all her hardwork and know she will continue to be involved and help with the club. I also offer my thanks to Kathy Macrow who has been assisting in the role of secretary recently.
I am pleased to inform you all that stepping into the role of secretary from the position of general member is Jon Roberts and through unanimous vote at last nights committee meeting the vacant general member position will be filled by Aline Dejaegher. Aline along with helpful volunteer, Christine Sullivan, will be supporting the secretary primarily focusing on maintaining our membership register and welcoming new members to the club by way of our [email protected] email address.
Please join with me in thanking all the current committee members who are busy organising lots of things behind the scenes and watch this space for more info to come while we welcome Jon to his new role and Ally to the committee. If you would like to know if there is anyway you can help and volunteer at the club please contact me to discuss any ideas [email protected]
Camp 2016
Thursday night: The trip didn’t seem like it was getting off on the right foot when we left Melbourne on a cold, rainy night for the 2 hour dark drive up to Nagambie. After an exhausting week at work we arrived at the campsite and already we had encountered our first challenge, a boom gate. Thanks to organisation queen Kathy’s email “most” of us got through without a hitch – others needed to wake up the locals only to be reminded that the code had already been sent out. A couple of U-turns later we found our cabins and settled in for the night.
Day 1: Early morning wake-up call. It seemed each cabin had a morning person and ours was Edwina. Leaping out of her bed at 5:30 AM and annoying those who wanted an extra 10 minutes (or 2 hours!) snooze. Yash wasn’t quite coping but a coffee delivered to bed fixed her up soon enough.
Again the weather didn’t seem to be ideal, cold, rainy, and muddy we set out for the day. Down to the lake at 6:15 to rig the boats, a quick meet & greet and then straight on to the water. Given that 2 hours is about the most any of us beginners have rowed in a day we were in for some hurt. We had a massive 6 hours ahead of us and despite the enthusiasm, it wasn’t easy! (How do the regular members keep up their energy?!) One of the most enjoyable parts of the day was the barbeque, which we were all excited about! Over some delicious BBQ the DS heard some great stories and advice form rowing veterans, mainly Rob.
The BBQ crew
Fed and somewhat rested it was then time for the box biting challenge to begin. For those who couldn’t stay out to watch, Dave was live on facebook, moving around the cabins to make sure nobody missed out (rumour has it that he was locked out of his own cabin!!). It came down to a battle to the death between Alan & Edwina but it was a win for the girls and the DS!
Day 2: Another early start, another coffee for Yash, two morning rows and some new experiences for us all. Yash had her first go at being a coxswain for RRC. Following a “slight” disastrous coxing experience in another club, she considered it a win by not sinking the boat. Well done
Edwina had her first go in a double with Jen. She thought she was killing it until she realised Jen had been balancing the boat the entire time. It’s okay Edwina, we think you killed it. Then we went to the pub for the AFL grand finale. Most patrons supported the Dogs, but for Yash and Edwina even watching the game was a new experience. The most heartbreaking moment of the day was watching Kathy’s face of disappointment at the Swan’s defeat, her fault for following a team from Sydney I guess (just kidding). After a long afternoon of eating & drinking, most of us were ready for an early night.
Day 3: This was probably the most difficult morning start. Packing up the cabins before the first row wasn’t what we had in mind after 2 days of rowing. But all good things must come to an end. The killer sunrise made us hopeful but the wind made it difficult, the water was choppy and there were a few grumpy seats in boats.
Day 3: Killer sunrise!!
The fatigue and empty headedness showed as we all let go of our oars when Rebecca told us to throw up our arms for a photo, we didn’t realise she was joking…..For the last session the other crews raced each other but DS were struggling to keep the balance of the boat amongst all the waves. By the end of it we weren’t sure which had more water in it, the lake or our boat.
Put your hand in the air like you don’t care!! Not a good idea.
With all the fun over it was time to pay our dues, as if our muscles hadn’t suffered enough over the last few days. De-rigging, boat loading, car-packing and back to Melbourne for re-rigging, boat unloading and car unpacking as well as washing the boats & oars. At least the sun was shining?
We don’t know about everyone else, but I was asleep by 8 that night and looking forward to sleep past 5:30 AM. What a weekend! Thanks for everyone who organised the weekend – especially Kathy, Tim, Barry & the coaches but also to all the other members for including and supporting us. We not only had a great time but bonded well as a team despite a lack of sleep and a bunch of blisters. We are sure all of the DS feel the same way, sore, glad, grateful and keen to go again – we had such a great weekend!
-Edwina & Yash
Melbourne Head BBQ
With races fast approaching don’t forgot to pencil in our first race on the Yarra for the year. Melbourne Head takes place on Saturday 19th of November. There’s no boat loading or unloading so we will be trying to get as many boats on the water as possible. Even better news is we will be opening the bar and having a barbecue at the conclusion of races – from 1pm.
More details to come on arrangements, for now pencil it in your diaries, let your coach or Head of Rowing know if you plan to race.
We also need volunteers to cook up a storm on the BBQ and help with a shift on the bar if you have an RSA – please email [email protected] if you can help.
Toughest row in Australia – and we did it!
Mildura Airport has many wonderful features. An expansive, comfortable departure lounge offering stunning runway views, a wide range of fine dining establishments serving quality deep fried fare, and the finest set of boarding stairs to be offered by a North West Victorian regional airport. Sadly, I do have one slight criticism, and it is slight, but I found the lack of an aeroplane to be a little disappointing.
This blog post is a collective effort, compiled by bored and fatigued Richmond rowers (and one Argonaut) anxiously awaiting the arrival of their continuously delayed flight back to Melbourne. In truth the president had a captive pool of potential blog posters imprisoned for the next two hours and we were all too scared to refuse her ‘request’. Ho hum, it passes the time I suppose.
Anyway, in case you haven’t twigged by now, a contingent of RRC have been in Wentworth this weekend taking on the challenge of the Royal Flying Doctor’s 25th Rowathon, and what a challenge it was! Sadly, due to strong currents on the Murray river, this year’s event was constrained to the Darling, but the surrounding scenery was wonderful nonetheless, with almost perfect conditions allowing us to appreciate it. In total we fielded four boats <cough>and even brought a spare<cough>, all coxed quads. The full course comprised two return trips to the (now) famous Bob Hill’s farm, a 20km slog each way. As such rowers were able to nominate their target total distance, either 20km, 40km, 60km or the full 80km. RRC crews opted for a variety, with myself picking off the first and third stages for a total of 40km of rowing. The next bit I can only really describe from my own perspective….
The departure was early. Bacon and eggs were served in the dark, and with first light the boats of nervous rowers began to deploy onto the Darling. Once comfortably on water my crew spotted the cunning practical joke I had set for them. Whilst Alan did debate the possible consequences of rowing 20km with our seats on backwards, the crew eventually decided it would be wise to invest the time to refit them, for the sake of our posteriors. And with the onlookers thoroughly convinced of our professionalism we pulled away from the start, mind half drifting to the pain which lay ahead. Moments later, without anyone having spoken a word, Laurent our coxswain cheerfully declared we had just put 4km behind us. “Really?”, “Lies!’ sounded the crew, but Laurent protested his integrity, and apparently it was true! Things were going much faster than we had anticipated. Perhaps it was the lack of Yarra landmarks? Perhaps it was the current? Regardless, maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all? With some “pushes for 10” the next 16km slipped under the hull pretty smoothly and we pulled across the line after a pleasing 1hr35mins on water. Greeting us were the worlds finest scones laced with jam and cream, a smiling Shern and Nic providing a dry change of clothes, and three burrowing chickens that nobody but myself seemed particularly interested in.
All change at this point, with crews swapping out rowers for the return run, whilst those of us not rowing hitched a lift back to Wentworth on the bus. Well I say all change. Some things today would remain impressively constant. Four of the intrepid Richmond women, Sophie, Michelle, Ainsley and Karen, had decided they were going the full distance. Seeing them climb back into the boat after a thoroughly inadequate recovery period I was both full of sympathy and admiration. They rowed off strong with smiles and determination, I settled into my soft, comfortable bus seat to contemplate the next leg. But first lunch.
As is now the tradition Wentworth laid out a wonderful spread for lunch, and whilst munching on our salad sandwiches we were able to give the returning crews some triumphant cheers as they pulled across the line.
By 12:30 it was all back on. I was back in the boat again, this time with Sarah F, Stef & Alan ahead of me, with Dennis H positioned in the coxswain seat. As we got underway Dennis allowed us a moment of relaxation, directing our attention towards a fluffy line of signets tailgating their mother. “Aww…now heads back in the boat, you’ve got 20kms ahead of you!”. And so we pushed on again, a little hotter and a lot more worn down. The distance seemingly took longer to cover this time, but as we entered the last 5km Dennis found his racing spirit. The battle-hardened girls had snuck up onto our tail and Dennis was determined to hold the racing line whilst we could. Successive pushes kept our heads firmly in the boat and the boat speed up. Eventually Kathy (coxing the womens quad) found an opportunity to push past and the chase lessened, but it was great fun whilst it lasted!
Soon we pulled back over the line again with, what I must say, felt like a tidy finish, thanks to some inspiring words from our cox. And that was my days rowing over. A quick bite of cake and we were once again seeing off the returning crews. The womens quad looked tired but never more determined.
On the way back to Wentworth I kindly declined the bus drivers offer to visit the River Lock and Fish Ladder (what?!), instead choosing to soak up a bit of late afternoon sunshine on the grass. There wasn’t much time to relax however, as weary crews soon began to appear. One by one we cheered the triumphant crews and, if we’re honest, adding a little more gusto for the Richmond boats. Everybody looked exhausted but proud to have achieved their lofty goals. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly seeing the Richmond Women’s quad pull across the line for the final time, home at last, having put an amazing 80km under their belts over the day. Well done ladies, outstanding effort!
During the evening’s frivolities (apparently a little too frivolous for some officials!) it was announced that the event had raised a whopping total estimating to be approx $40,000 for the great work of the Royal Flying Doctor’s, with $4480 of that coming from sponsorship of Richmond rowers and extra through the skillful bidding of some RRC members at the fundraising auction. Well done guys!
The whole event took an epic amount of organisation, with 34 RRC rowers competing and various extra support crew helping out. Thanks must go to everyone who contributed with organising boats (including a boat loan from Latrobe University Rowing club), co-ordinating trailering with Hawthorn and Melbourne Rowing clubs, finding us some accommodation and generally ensuring we were all where we needed to be when and with the right stuff – never an easy task. Good job all!
Matt Ebbatson
Training zooties
It’s always great to see RRC members training in club colours. The folks at Red Handed clothing co have designed some training suits for RRC. They are a nylon/Lycra blend, lightweight and quick dry. If we place a minimum order for either then the cost will be about $60 each; if the order is smaller then they will cost a bit more. If you are interested to purchase a suit then please email me directly on [email protected] before Sun Sept 11 with your preferred suit (Swirl or Aztec Pattern, or you can have both if want) and size (see attached Zootie Size Chart). I will confirm cost before placing a final order. Email me with any queries!
Geraldine Goss
Season 2016-17
The AGM on Saturday 30th July saw the official completion of the 2015-16 season. I thank all those who attended the event and acknowledged the work of the committee over the past year. We were able to present very healthy financial statements for the association and a thorough report on the activities of the year (can be downloaded at the bottom of this blog).
I was very pleased to be able to announce due to the success of our fundraising efforts of the past year we have placed an order for a new stern coxed four/quad for the club which will be a great benefit to the club particularly to assist in our Development squad coaching where it is not always possible to have a coach on the bank as well as a cox in the boat. With a grand total of $23,500 from fundraising we also had some extra cash to invest in a new set of mens quad sculling oars and two new model ergos to replace our oldest ones. With our fundraising coordinator of this year, Cat Bower, stepping down from the committee as she begins to build her family we can thank her for her amazing work this year.
We also saw two further members of our committee step down and they will be both be sorely missed. Derek Begg has served on the committee for 12 years in the roles of Secretary, Head of Rowing, Head of Club Development and general member. His time and effort during this period should not be underestimated and we appreciate all his hardwork. Similarly, Vikki Brennan has fulfilled the role of general member and Treasurer whilst serving on the committee for the past four years and has invested much time in ensuring we are in the good financial position we are in today. I thank all our committee and members who have contributed to the club for the past year.
The new committee for the 2016-17 season was formed consisting of:
President – Karen Doggett
Vice-President – Geraldine Goss
Secretary – Shern Timmins
Treasurer – Kathy Macrow
Captain of Boats – Barry Campbell
Head of Rowing – Tim Evans
Facilities Coordinator – Lucy Crunden
Two ordinary members – Jon Roberts, Nic Forte
Fundraising Coordinator – vacant
However, I am very glad to report that since the meeting David Micallef has stepped up and volunteered to fill the role of Fundraising Coordinator and so I would like to congratulate and welcome him, Jon Roberts and Nic Forte our three new committee members.
Following the conclusion of the AGM we celebrated the newest addition to our fleet, the Remigando Fortis (Rowing Strong), our secondhand Sykes double/pair, with our National Masters winning single sculler, Michelle Joy, stepping up to the boat with a trusted hammer to perform the official naming. Thanks to everyone who then helped out with the bbq and bar as we celebrated the end of one season and the start of the next.
Following the conclusion of the AGM we celebrated the newest addition to our fleet, the Remigando Fortis (Rowing Strong), our secondhand Sykes double/pair, with our National Masters winning single sculler, Michelle Joy, stepping up to the boat with a trusted hammer to perform the official naming. Thanks to everyone who then helped out with the bbq and bar as we celebrated the end of one season and the start of the next.
Rowing Victoria Accreditation
The new season is just around the corner and there is no better time to begin forward planning. So please check your diaries and sign up to upcoming Rowing Victoria courses.
At RRC we require all members to be accredited coxswains to help assist with training but also to ensure everyone is aware of the river rules and safety requirements of our sport.
- ACCREDITED COXSWAINS: it is compulsory for all coxswains in Victoria to be accredited for racing AND training. This year, coxswains will be ineligible for regatta entry (through Rowing Manager) if they have not acquired Good Coxswain accreditation.
Take a look at the Events Calendar http://www.rowingvictoria.asn.au/events/ on the RV website and sign up for an already scheduled course. You will find that we are hosting one at the RRC boathouse on Monday 22nd August, so it couldn’t be simpler to attend.
Pre-season is also the optimum time to complete a coaching qualification if you have any interest in volunteering to assist with coaching or just want to improve your skills and knowledge. In 2016 this can be done without course attendance and without dedicating an available weekend in a busy life. It is also cheaper; down from $220 to $180. It can be done on the computer in your own home at your own pace, at a time of your choosing.
- ACCREDITED COACHES: beginning in season 2016-17 all coaches are required to be National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) accredited (minimum Level 1). This will guarantee compliance with RV Members Protection Policy and provide crews with a Maritime Safety Victoria exemption from wearing PFDs.
To complete the on-line coaching course: Click here to access the Online Level 1 NCAS Coaching Accreditation Course
As a club we have been successful in securing grant funding to help support anyone wishing to undertake coaching accreditation (the grant is only valid for one year so I advise you to think about whether you would like to do the course sooner rather than later).
If you have any questions or concerns in regard to any of the above, please contact Tim Evans our head of rowing.
Coxswain Workshops
See below for great opportunities in Melbourne for anyone wishing to improve or extend their coxing skills/knowledge.
Wednesday 10th August, 6pm: Beginner Coxswain Workshop Beginner Coxswain Workshop
Wednesday 17th August, 6pm: Advanced Coxswain Workshop Advanced Coxswain Workshop1
The Beginner Workshop is for those who are just starting their coxing careers, but experienced coxswains or coaches who would like a refresher of the basics are welcome too. We will cover everything necessary to safely and efficiently cox training sessions, and basic ways that coxswains can assist their coaches and ‘add value’ to their crew. The Advanced Workshop will cover a number of communication techniques, as well as ways in which coxswains can continue to improve on their own. Both workshops will be interactive, with plenty of opportunities to practice and ask questions. For more information and booking details see links above.
Sarah Ben-David
U21 Australian Team Coxswain
Rio Rowing Finals Social
Are you busy counting down to the rowing at this years Olympics? Well it’s not long to go and we’ll be opening the boathouse and the bar for the final day of the Rio rowing finals, so come down and join the fun and excitement as we watch the best of the best row to glory on the big screen.
Saturday 13th August, from 7pm (be aware the time difference to Brazil means the rowing is going to be pretty late). With the last minute inclusion of the Australian womens 8, it could be a big night for the Aussies with the singles and the eights both male and female both reaching their climax.
http://3.25.77.84/event/rio-rowing-olympics-viewing/
AGM Saturday 30th July, Midday
Just a reminder that this weekend is the last Saturday in July and we will be hosting our Annual General Meeting at the boathouse from midday.
I hope to see many of you there and it will be followed by a boat naming ceremony for our recent double purchase and a social gathering upstairs in the boathouse with a bbq and the bar open. Please see the attached Agenda AGM 30 July 2016 for the schedule of the meeting on Saturday.
Important business for the meeting is the presentation of the last years reports and financial statements for the association. We also have the task of electing the new committee for the upcoming year and I would like to highlight that we have the position of Fundraising co-ordinator vacant with no member nominating for this role and I will be calling to the floor for anyone wishing to stand, so I encourage you to think about this opportunity and how you can help give back to the club. If you are potentially interested and would like to speak to me before the AGM to find out more about this particular role and the commitment required to be a committee member I would be happy to speak to you and you can contact me via email, [email protected].
Best wishes,
Karen Doggett
Richmond Rowing Club President