Dragons Abreast Australia Makes Waves at the 2025 Australian Masters Games
Submitted by Sharon Cooper, Board Member, Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA).
The pink paddles were out in full force at the Australian Masters Games in Canberra from 18th – 20th October 2025, with Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA) members coming together from across Australia to race, connect, and celebrate everything that makes our community so special. The banks of Lake Burley Griffin was the perfect setting for the breast cancer paddlers to enjoy three days of connection, celebration and community.
The Masters Games have always been about participation, fun and friendship - and this year’s event was no exception. 11 DAA crews, representing 20 member groups from around Australia, took to the water with determination and pride, showing that strength, resilience, and joy can all fit in the same boat after a diagnosis of breast cancer. For some paddlers, it was their first Masters experience; for others, it was a chance to catch up with friends from around the country.
The racing was tight, the teamwork outstanding, and the atmosphere unforgettable. The crews were cheered on by teammates, supporters, and plenty of curious spectators who stopped to learn more about the story behind the breast cancer paddlers and what they represent.
The laughter around the tents, the hugs at the finish line, and the shared sense of pride summed up exactly what Dragons Abreast is all about - connection, community, and the sheer joy of being part of something bigger than yourself. Our message - Connect. Move. Live. - was alive in every moment of the weekend.
Dragons Abreast Australia facilitated the entry of composite crews, with excellent results. DAA Member Groups did an amazing job in the composite crews, placing 2nd in the 200m 10’s, 2nd and 3rd in the 200m 20’s and 1st place in the 1km turn race.
Congratulations to all members who participated in the Australian Masters Games. Whether paddling, volunteering, cheering from the bank, or being there to support one another, DAA members once again showed the true power of the dragon boat community, proving that age, background and diagnosis are no barriers to movement, friendship, or fun.
The Masters Games reminded us all that paddling continues to be a wonderful way to stay connected, active and inspired.
Pink. Proud. Powerful. That’s us—together, on and off the water.
