Q&A

Dragon Boat Club

Townsville, North Queensland

The Home of Blaze Dragons

What is a Dragon Boat?

A 'standard' dragon boat is 42 feet long. There are ten 'bench' seats in a boat, each holding two paddlers. We also have a drum at the front and a steerer or helmsman at the back. In total, there are 22 crew members in a standard boat. We also have what we call a '10's boat. This comprises five benches, drummer and steerer. Our dragon boats have ornately carved heads and tails. Paddles represent the claws of the dragon and the drum represents it's beating heart!!

Do I have to be fit? I don't have any upper body strength.

Everyone has to start somewhere. Every single dragon boat paddler started in the same position as you. The beauty of our club is that we provide all the instruction you need to start off. Once you get a handle on the basics, we start introducing more technical instruction. Believe it or not, most of the work with paddling comes from a strong core, back and legs. You don't need to be fit when you start and you definitely don't need to know what you are doing on Day 1.

Do you have qualified people in your club?

We sure do!!!! We have an accredited Level 1 Coach, Level 1 AusDBF officials, a Level 4 steerer (there are five levels in total) and a steerer Assessor. Be assured that you will be safe while with us on and off the water.

When can I come down to Loam Island Boat Ramp to have a try?

You are welcome to visit us on any training day. It is preferable to contact us first to let us know that you would like to join us for a paddle. We look forward to seeing you!

What do I need to bring with me?

When you use your 'Blaze Dragons Paddler Pass' consisting of five free sessions, wear comfortable clothing that can get wet, wear a hat, sunglasses, sunblock and bring a water bottle. If you want to, you can wear 'reef' shoes if you want some protection for your feet. The club provides a paddle for your use while you are learning. When you join as a member, you will want to purchase your own paddle (guaranteed!).

I am not really a strong swimmer. Can I still paddle?

You sure can!!! We have Personal Flotation Device (PFD) jackets that you can borrow but you can provide your own. We will take you through a capsize procedure when you first start paddling so that you know what to do IF we have one. You will always have a buddy to look after you. Don't worry, our coaches and steerers don't want anyone going for a swim!! Our intention is to always have you safe and dry on the inside of the boat!!

I'm not really a competitive person. Is it OK for me to be a non-competitive paddler?

Absolutely!!! Our club caters for paddlers who would like to paddle for fun, friendships and fitness. You will be offered opportunities to compete but it is entirely up to you whether you do or not.

I'm a competitive person. Is there opportunity to compete?

Asbolutely!!!! We have some challenges being geographically separated from the Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast regions where most of the dragon boat clubs are based but we are fully committed to fundraising to support our club members to compete. There are three clubs based here in Townsville, one based in Cairns and two clubs based in Mackay. We have local regatta's we can compete at. Our club intends to attend the Queensland State Championships held at Lake Kawana each March, as well as attend Australian Championships where possible. Our club will also provide opportunities for members to attend Festivals and Events in other States and Territories in Australia as well as Overseas.

How much will it cost me to join Blaze Dragons Club?

This sport is very affordable. Our membership fees are very low because we don't have overheads. In 2020, our fees are as follows:-

Adult membership is $110 per Season.
- $110 due by 1 July. Term is 1 July to 30 June
- Any person joining from 1 April will enjoy 3 months of free membership (subject to change)!
- This covers insurance as a paddler, membership to AusDBF and membership to DBQ. As a member, you are able to train for three+ days per week and have access to a club paddle and PFD. You also have full access to facilities and equipment.
Under 24 membership is $90 per Season.
- $90 due by 1 July. Term is 1 July to 30 June
- Any person joining from 1 April will enjoy 3 months of free membership (subject to change)!
- This covers insurance as a paddler, membership to AusDBF and membership to DBQ. As a member, you are able to train for three+ days per week and have access to a club paddle and PFD. You also have full access to facilities and equipment.
Junior membership is $60 per Season.
- $60 due by 1 July. Term is 1 July to 30 June
- Any Junior joining from 1 April will enjoy 3 months of free membership (subject to change)!
- This covers insurance as a paddler, membership to AusDBF and membership to DBQ. As a member, you are able to train for three+ days per week as well as monthly as a Qld Sonic Dragon and have access to a club paddle and PFD (mandatory). You also have full access to facilities and equipment. in addition, membership with the Qld Sonic Dragons Queensland Representative Club is automatic.
- A Junior member can opt to be a Qld Sonic Dragon as a Primary Club and compete with a parent or host club (i.e. Blaze Dragons) as a secondary club. We fully support this as Juniors will always compete with 'Sonics' as a first option at regattas and events.

What can I expect to gain from Dragon Boating?

You can expect to make fantastic friendships and have fun while getting fit. You can expect to be treated with the true Spirit of the sport at our club, what we refer to as the 'Dragon Spirit'. We pride ourselves on ensuring an environment that is safe, supportive, inclusive and relaxed. You won't find any ego's at our club. Everyone knows what we need to do to get on and off the water and we love to socialise outside of training.

We completely understand that Dragon Boat paddling is not for everyone and kudos to you for giving it a go....but if you get bitten by the bug, it will soon become very apparent that your world starts to revolve around paddling....to the extent you will plan your holidays around paddling events!!!! Looking forward to seeing you on the water soon......

The Dragon Spirit. What is it? Do Blaze Dragons uphold the traditions of Dragon Boating?

Here is a great link to information about the Dragon Spirit, Paddler's Oath and the Eye-Dotting Ceremony. CULTURAL INFORMATION

It is traditional for us to bless a brand new boat before it is used on the water. At the end of each season, we should put the boat to sleep and at season start, awaken the dragon with a blessing. Where possible, we perform these blessings conducted by a Buddhist Monk and Traditional Aboriginal Elder.