Power of the paddle: Diamond Phoenix celebrates 20 years of sisterhood

Posted on 22 September, 2026

When the paddlers of the Diamond Phoenix Dragon Boat Club push off into the pre-dawn waters of Lake Burley Griffin, most of Canberra is still fast asleep.

What brings these women here – leaving the warmth of their beds for the crisp Canberra air – is more than just a morning workout: it’s a “sisterhood.”

“The camaraderie and support has become the backbone of the team,” says senior coach Nicky.

“You really have to work together to make the boat go, and we get to know each other really well.”

The club formed two decades ago, when a small group of just 25 women first gathered on the water. Today, Diamond Phoenix has more than doubled in size, boasting over 50 members and a multigenerational roster ranging from teenagers to women in their late 70s, bound together by a shared passion (including evening sessions for those who aren’t morning people).

Originating in China, dragon boating is a fast-paced, team-based water sport where crews of up to 20 propel a long, decorated boat using single-bladed paddles. Races typically cover short, straight-line distances such as 200, 400 or 500 metres.

For Nicky, her dragon boating journey began with a simple family invitation.

“My sister was friends with some of the girls starting the team and asked if I wanted to join,” she says.

“I was looking for a team sport to do and thought it would be fun.”

Kerry, another dedicated member, had a similar entry point.

“I attended a corporate regatta in 2005 and just loved it,” she says.

“When my sister joined Diamond Phoenix in 2017, I followed her to the club.”

Reaching a two-decade milestone is an impressive feat in a transient city like Canberra, where maintaining steady numbers can be a constant hurdle. Nicky says at the heart of the club’s longevity is its supportive environment.

“We are able to support our members in a non-judgemental way and in a safe environment,” she says.

“It allows us to cater for all fitness levels and support women in that they want to achieve through the sport. We have also been able to support some neurodiverse members gain confidence which has been incredibly special to watch and be a part of.”

The transformative power of the group shines through the personal growth of its paddlers.

“Through our wonderful coaches, I’ve improved my paddling skills and gained experience as the lead stroke, setting the pace when we race,” Kerry says.

“I have also learned how to drum and encourage the crew. This year, I achieved my level two sweep accreditation so I can now take out a boat of paddlers. Gaining skills and confidence led to me trying out for the ACT representative team in the 2024/2025 season and competing with the ACT team at the Australian Championships in 2025.”

Off the water, Kerry says the club’s connection is cemented with cherished social traditions.

“After training on Saturday, we enjoy coffee and cake at On Lake Café,” she says.

“During COVID, when we were unable to train, we met and walked various trails. Some of us still regularly walk. We also have dinners, attend trivia nights, and travel together.”

To honour two decades of community, fitness and friendship, the club will host a “come and try” session on Saturday, 26 September at Grevillea Park in Barton, inviting the community to see what paddling is all about.

For the members, gathering at Grevillea Park makes the milestone even sweeter.

“Grevillea Park is the home of dragon boating in the ACT so the most fitting place for us to celebrate,” Nicky says.

“We would love to see any ladies who would like to come and give dragon boating a go in a supportive environment.”