Question 1

Do I need previous experience?

Accepted Answer

No previous experience is required — our qualified coaches will teach you everything you need to know. With a free 4‑week Dragon Pass and the option to join a Learn to Paddle program, you’ll be paddling confidently in no time.

Question 2

Do I need to be able to swim?

Accepted Answer

If you’re not a confident swimmer, or cannot swim 50m in sports clothes and water shoes, you’ll need to wear a life jacket while in the boat.

Once you become a club member, Dragon Boat NSW will require you to complete an annual swim test under the supervision of a qualified instructor. The swim test includes:

The Swim: 50-metre unassisted swim using any stroke (no time limit).
The Float: 3 minutes of treading water or floating without support.
The Gear: You must perform the test wearing standard paddling clothing (e.g., shirt, shorts, and enclosed footwear).

Your signed certificate of completion is then submitted to the KMDBC Secretary.

The Kempsey McElhone Swimming Complex offers supervised testing at a minimal cost.

Question 3

I have an injury. Can I still participate?

Accepted Answer

Dragon boating is a full‑body workout that builds strength and cardio fitness. If you’re managing an injury, our coaches are happy to discuss your situation. You can also try the technique on one of our  erg machines — a rowing machine fitted with a dragon‑boat attachment — to experience paddling without getting in the boat.

Question 4

I’d like to chat with someone from the club. Who should I contact?

Accepted Answer

You’re welcome to reach out to one of our coaches — see the Contact page for details. You can also email the club at kmriverrats@gmail.com or submit an online enquiry.

Question 5

What equipment do I need?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable, quick-drying sports clothes that can get wet and bring the following with you:

Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
A water bottle
Water shoes

Club paddles are available, and a coach will fit you with the correct paddle length.

Question 6

When and where is training?

Accepted Answer

KMDBC trains on the Macleay River three days a week, year‑round (depending on the weather - refer to the note below). We meet at the KMDBC shed at Riverside Park, Kempsey, 30 minutes before OTW (on the water) time.

See Training for days and times.

We also run Learn to Paddle programs at scheduled times throughout the year. Contact the club for upcoming dates.

Note: The club has a duty to ensure the safety of all KMDBC dragon boat participants, which includes adhering to the Australian Dragon Boat Federation (AusDBF) comprehensive Adverse Weather Conditions Guidelines. These guidelines explain that  dragon boat training and racing must be modified or cancelled whenever heat, cold, poor air quality, storms, lightning, or strong winds create unsafe conditions.

If an upcoming session is cancelled or rescheduled due to weather, it will be communicated by the club as early as practicable.

Club members will receive a message via the team's WhatsApp chat
New paddlers, including Dragon Pass and Learn to Paddle participants, should check the KMDBC Facebook page for updates. You are also welcome to call or text our coaches to check.

Question 7

What do the training sessions involve?

Accepted Answer

We meet 30 minutes before the training start time to warm up, place paddles and bottles in the boat, and walk the boat to the river. After loading and receiving the Sweep’s safety briefing, we begin with a warm‑up paddle on both sides, followed by a series of drills.

Sessions and seating plans are designed by our coaches and vary depending on upcoming regattas.

Question 8

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

With a Dragon Pass, you can try dragon boating free for up to four weeks. During this time, you can join Learn to Paddle sessions, regular training, and even participate in a regatta (regatta fees apply), all covered by Dragon Boat NSW insurance.

Most people enjoy the experience so much that they choose to join the club. Visit Membership for costs, inclusions, and how to sign up.

Question 9

Do the River Rats compete?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The River Rats proudly represent our region at Northern Regional Regattas, across Australia, and internationally. While club participation in regattas is organised at the club level, you can view the annual NSW regatta calendar here.

KEMPSEY MACLEAY DRAGON BOAT CLUB

Nature-powered training

Weekly training sessions

Frequently asked questions