Very early one Sunday morning the calm waters of Lake Forbes were high and shrouded with light fog.
Seven eager members of the Forbes Dragon Boat Club were waiting for a truck to turn the corner… a truck carrying two long awaited, new racing dragon boats.
Past president, Bill Thomas, and past Treasurer, Claire Davis, were among the eager onlookers to witness the Forbes Dragon Boat Club change from its almost three decades old boats to much lighter, sleeker, modern racing boats.
As the truck rumbled into sight, a buzz went through the little group and cameras began clicking. The boats were unloaded with great enthusiasm and carefully set in their new home.
Many delighted phrases rang out like: “Wow! We have foot-rests.”, “They have handles! We can move them so much easier!” and “They’re so much lighter.” The club is ready for the next paddling session and can hardly wait to get them in the water.
“The boats have come about due to the hard work of our previous board and we thank them once again, especially Bill and Claire,” said President Robyn Stephens.
The club is set to go from strength to strength with a very committed new board: Robyn Stephens, president; Tony Fisher, vice-president; Michael Green, treasurer; Kristine Dobell, registrar; Chris Sweeney, publicity officer; Ian Prince, works coordinator; Neil Stephens, board member and Warren Edwards, secretary.
If you would like to join our club or find out more about it come along on Sunday mornings at 8:30 – the water recedes – and 6:30 Thursday evenings in daylight-saving time. You can find us on Facebook. It’s a great sport and a great club. You are most welcome to come along!
By Bill and Beth Thomas