Rutherglen Regatta Revived

Well, after just getting through the worst of Covid (fingers and toes crossed), we endured, what they are calling a “Weather Event”, with massive flooding. I’m sure you’ll agree that all our lives and activities have been on-hold or severely curtailed for some time. Sport was just one of the many areas challenged during this time and it does form a very important part of the community fabric. An outlet, a reason to keep fit, meeting and enjoying the company of friends.

My sport of choice, is rowing, not for everyone, but like any team based sport, it provides lifebalance, challenges and a welcome distraction to all the other ‘goings on’ about the place. Regional sporting clubs, be they rowing, football, netball or darts, rely on events to keep them afloat financially and buy new equipment, maintain facilities etc. The first rowing regatta of the year is at Rutherglen, in northern Victoria. This is held over two days on Lake Moodimere, which is about seven k’s out of town. Not only do the Clubs benefit, but local businesses do a roaring trade. The Murray Rowing Association hosts the regatta, and three clubs combine and work together, to ensure its success. Wahgunyah, Corowa and Rutherglen Rowing Clubs.

Now, up until two weeks ago, the regatta infrastructure was underwater. Access to the lake was all but non-existent and the future of the 2023 regatta in jeopardy. A cancellation would have been a significant ‘blow’ to the clubs and area in general. As the water receded, the clubs and community got to work and through sheer determination and hard work, got the course and facilities up to scratch. No mean feat! Sunscreen and shade were the rowers and spectators friends over the two days, as temperatures teased at forty degrees. The breeze was the savour and gave welcome relief. 800 metres is raced on the Saturday, with a 500 metre course setup for Sunday. There were 134 races conducted over the two days, with 26 clubs from Victoria and interstate representing. 416 athletes participated in events, with 2,107 seats filled. (Athletes rowed more than once).

Well done to the three clubs for getting the regatta up and going, a great achievement in the circumstances. Thanks to Parks Victoria too, for rebuilding the roads and infrastructure. Pictures below show crews on the water and the Nagambie Men’s ‘G’ quadruple scull, with their booty, after winning their race. ‘G’ refers to an age bracket in masters rowing, 65-69 years old. Great thing about having wineries as race sponsors, if you get the drift.