New Paddlers

Welcome!

We're so pleased you've taken the first step by clicking on our page to discover the wonderful world of dragon boating!

Dragons Abreast Canberra encourages and supports anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer to step into our boat and experience all the benefits of dragon boating: the camaraderie, wellbeing, social life and fitness for starters. You can bring a support person as well - this could be your friend, partner or a family member - whoever you think will be the right person to be with you in the boat.

What's next?

You can start off by joining a 'Come & Try' event (have a look at the Events page for details) or one of our regular training sessions, whatever works best for you.

Either way, we have experienced coaches and a friendly team who will introduce you to dragon boating. A paddle and a personal floation device are supplied along with morning tea at our 'Come & Try' sessions.

We have a temporary membership form for a single outing with us, or you can pick up a 'Dragon Pass' for one month of free paddling.

If you're ready to sign up for a Dragon Pass, you can register HERE.

We have DAC Buddies who will support you as you settle in with your Dragon Pass as well as if (when!) you transition to full membership. Your DAC Buddy is your ‘go-to’ person with any queries; they’ll paddle with you as often as possible and help you settle into the team.

At each session we do a warm up, partner up and off we go! There is no expectation that you paddle for a whole session. Our aim is to take you through the basics and support you to build up in a way that works for you.

What should I wear?

Anything that’s comfortable and, most importantly, will be OK if it gets wet. We recommend active wear; layers in winter; wet weather gear for rainy sessions; closed toed sandals or shoes to keep you comfortable along with sun protection and always bring water. 

Regular Training Sessions

While you are welcome to come along to any of these training sessions, we recommend a Wednesday or Saturday (8:15am) outing to start. 

Sometimes the session can be cancelled for a range of reasons, so please contact us before coming so we can let you know about any updated information.

Tuesday
Sunrise Session

Building fitness and enjoying the sunrise

Warm up: 6.00 am
On the water: 6.15 - 7.00 am

Wednesday A relaxed chatty paddle - a bit of endurance and a lot of laughs

Summer
Warm up: 5.45 pm
On the water: 6.00 - 7.00 pm

Winter
Warm up at 11.50 am
On the water: 12.00 - 1.00pm

Saturday
Extra Effort
More intense than usual paddling. Specifically for those
wantingto push themselves further to improve their
paddling, strength and fitness.
Warm up: 7.15 am
On the water: 7.30 - 8.15 am
Saturday
Regular Session

A potpourri of dragon boating: technique, endurance,
stamina and sweep manoeuvres. Usually room for a
game and a giggle as well.

Warm up: 8.15 am
On the water: 8.30 - 9.30 am

 

Training Location

Meet us at Grevillea Park, Menindee Drive, Barton.

 

Remember

Every single one of us has been exactly where you are right now! Our team members are here to support you as you find your place in the club and the boat. It’s such a great place to be! 

Our coaching team, along with your buddy, and other crew members will help you to connect with the club, paddle safely in the boat and enable you to be a part of our team. 

We are inclusive and social while supporting wellbeing and building fitness in a way that meets your individual needs.

What if I tried it and found that it’s not the right time for me to join?

If you have come out with us and decide, for whatever reason, you’re not quite ready to join, please come back when you’re ready; we’ll be here! Contact us via the website to re-connect and get underway.

Between now, and activating your Dragon Pass or joining Dragons Abreast Canberra, you may consider joining us as a non-paddling member and member of Dragons Abreast Australia. This means that you’ll be able to participate in our social (‘off-water’) events, and remain connected with the activities of Dragons Abreast Canberra. Let us know if this is your choice so we can explain this further. You can also read more about non-paddling members on our Membership page.

Why don't you follow our wonderful dragon boating community online via Facebook.  

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