The decision to become founding members of the dragon boat club in Taree stemmed from their desire to have a shared sporting commitment. 

That choice, their love of training, and a remarkable club camaraderie has seen them compete in the Pan Pacific Masters Games, Warren in the World Masters and the competitions have required them to travel to New Zealand, Tasmania and Hong Kong. Their commitment to the sport sees them travel to take part in club regattas throughout NSW and in preparation for each event, they spend hours paddling on the Manning River with other Manning River Dragons who also share their commitment to the sport.

They have paddled and competed with many people over the years, and are now keen to try to track down former Manning River Dragons for the club’s 10^th anniversary celebration on October 13 in the Waterfront Room at The Exchange Hotel in Taree.

Fitness and friendship is a focus of the club and Warren and Rhonda contend it is a key to wellbeing as you age. The club is keen to recruit more members, of all ages, and invites people to come and try the sport.

“Fitness wise I think I'd have to be at least 60 per cent better than probably most people who are my age. It's an effort, you've got to put in the hard yards … sweat and no tears ... but the sweat must be there,” Warren said.

Both Rhonda and Warren continue to work, Warren in his business, TDC Cleaning Services, and Rhonda at Taree Medical Centre. 

Rhonda, 70, says she sees the health implications of an inactive lifestyle in many of the people who attend the general practice for medical treatment.

Thirty years ago Rhonda chose to make physical activity an integral part of her daily routine and so began her commitment to running, cycling and squash. Nine City to Surf events, numerous dragon boat paddling achievements and frequent riding has created a body that “is not built for speed but I’m great at endurance.”

Today the reward is that she is a great grandmother who can do things with her children. 

“I like to think I'm on top of my health and that I'm a young great grandma.”

There are quite a few “young” grandmas and grandads in the club and both Warren and Rhonda are quick to highlight the fact that the average age of club members is around 60 years, with about six members who are aged over 70 years.

With that said, the club has also trained and supported young paddlers to gain selection in Australian-representative dragon boat teams.

To learn more about the Manning River Dragons and their training times visit the club website www.mrdbc.com.au

Former club members who want to attend the 10^th anniversary reunion contact Trish Paff on 0468 545 934 or by email to david.paff@bigpond.com