The History of ARC
The Albany Rowing Club was formed in 1984, by founding members Ken Matts (president), Richard Fry (secretary/treasurer), Viv Matts (captain). Committee: Kevin McMahon, David Pennington, Andrew Halsall, Peter McGregor, Chris Bruce, Michael Campbell and Ian Hebiton.
The first permanent home for the boats was in a farm building owned by a local farmer on the Kalgan River. Boats had to be carried down to the river, then back up the driveway. It became painfully obvious within the first 12 months that carrying the boats the long distance was a deterrent to the newer and younger rowers. The farm owner wanted his shed back, so a decision was made to store the boats at the old woolstores.
In 1986 negotiations were made with Kalgan River Progress Association to establish the club on an unused reserve it managed on behalf of the Albany Shire Council near Kalgan River bridge. The clubhouse was first used on April 16, 1986 and was official opened by Albany Shire president Harry Riggs in1987.
The first inter-school head of the river was first run in 1984 with Albany senior high school and St. Josephs, John Anderson and Richard Fry were the coaches. It was last run in 1997.
Albany Rowing Club became an inaugural member of the Western Australian Masters Games in 1990 and has hosted regattas regularly every two years. It continues to be a strong supporter of the Games, holding a regatta which has proved popular among Perth veteran rowers.
The Albany Rowing Club continues to be a welcoming and inclusive club that encourages all ages and all walks of life to participate.
