15/05/2026
Well in the next few weeks we are going to focus on members of the Amazons.
Today I would like to introduce everyone to one of our coaches Rachel and here is her story on why she became a mighty Amazon.
I joined Amazons in 2019 when I was invited to give paddling a go by a friend, a long time Amazon paddler. My friend was one of my squash training partners and she knew that I had previously been involved in various boating activities, so when I leased out my squash court centre, she invited me to try dragon boat paddling. When I first started, it seemed such a long way to travel from North Coogee to Maylands for such a short time on the water, but it didn't take long before I realised that I had available time and I was hooked. I also found out that when using the correct paddling technique, that you can work as hard (or as easy) as you like, so I enjoyed the hard physical workout and being on the water was a bonus.
It wasn't long before Amazons were looking for new coaches, so with my background as a physiotherapist including teaching various community exercise groups and as a professional squash coach, I couldn't say no. I signed up to do the level one coaching course.
When the Amazons were looking for additional sweeps to steer their boats, again I couldn't say no. I have been involved in racing and cruising sailing boats since high school and also have experience sweeping surf lifesaving rowing boats, so sweeping dragon boats was a natural progression.
I am now a level 3 sweep and State sweep assessor, a level 2 coach and have completed the elearning ready to do the level 3 coaching course when it is next available.
I am a passionate Amazons member where I love being part of a wonderful community who support breast cancer survivors and supporters to be improve their fitness, strength and emotional wellbeing through dragon boating.