December 2025 Newsletter

We had a productive last meeting for 2025 with some positive thoughts and energy going onward.

However, there are some concerns with some aspects of the club’s direction. These are not criticisms as such, but gentle reminders of what we all need to think about.

1. Boat fittings “Borrowing”. This is an old problem, and will not go away. All coaches and helpers need to be aware that the borrowing of equipment from other boats, such as, but not limited to, seats, foot stretchers, bungs etc., is acceptable, but you either return the gear after you have finished with it, or at least tell your committee that there is missing gear, and we can get it quickly sorted. 
2. Speed coaches. A continual problem it seems. We do need more, and a grant has been applied for, but a decision will not be available until mid-February 2026. However, our current supply is dwindling away. Please remember they are expensive, and if mistakenly left at regattas, other clubs are not likely to remind us of their good fortune. If you have used one, remember it is your responsibility to return it to the charging board in the boat shed and not take it home, put it in your bag or leave it lying around. 
3. Everyone has a responsibility to keep our boat shed tidy. Athletes, your changing rooms are not depositories for clothes, left over food, and other general rubbish. Please keep your areas tidy when you leave, including common areas. Thank you.
4. Club promotion. I for one, and I am not alone, are proud of our club, its history and direction. Please, especially at events, remember to show pride in your appearance, how you conduct yourselves in victory and defeat, and be prepared to help out others where there is a need.  Support your fellow rowers. Please speak well of our club. If there is a problem along these lines, please let your President know 

Regatta Success

December saw the biggest regatta of the season to date with clubs from all around the North Island and some from overseas competing. Time trials were introduced for the first time in some events, over 3 and a half days in sweltering conditions.  All our members made us proud and did their best. 

Stand outs were Alaric Bulling, Rico Ivamy, Harper Faire-Barlow, Jacob Marsden and their coxswain Jonty Waites who took out the Novice Boys Quad A final by 5 seconds and also Jimmy Hollard who qualified for the Mens’ Premier Single Sculls final against NZ representative athletes.  

Jimmy was very pleased to compete in the single he has been sponsored to race in this season by New Zealand Educational Tours.  Well done Jimmy on receiving sponsorship to help with your rowing career. 

Waters Edge Lounge

We have, with regret, accepted the resignation of our current Lounge Manager effective end of the month..

If you or anyone you know would be interested in this part time commission based position please contact Helen on 021 548 482 or secretary@taurangarowingclub.co.nz for more information.   Your Committee has agreed to share this gap in management, so hopefully we will not lose out on any bookings. 

Please continue to promote our lounge at every opportunity.

My thanks to my committee members as well as those “outside” volunteers for the great work they are all achieving. It is very much appreciated.

Otherwise your committee wishes all a nice Xmas break (but not from rowing it seems) and have special time with those who mean the most to you.

Our next meeting will be in February 2026

Neil Chinnery-Brown

President

clubpresident@taurangarowingclub.co.nz