Revamped dragons to roar into race action

A dragon boat working bee was organised by Broome Rotary Club members and volunteers this month, in time for this weekend’s exciting Broome Dragon Boat Regatta.

Newly appointed Rotary president Graeme Atherton led a team of dedicated helpers to haul the dragon boats out of storage for an inspection at Town Beach.

The brightly coloured boats were inspected for minor damages including checking the paddles and the dragons’ heads and tails. The eyes of the dragons were also freshly painted white to prepare them for their “awakening” on Saturday, with the dotting of the eyes.

Competition on the water is expected to be fierce this year, as Broome Surf Club gears up to regain top spot. But the team will have to rise to the challenge as an impressive line-up of new teams will compete this year, including Woodside, Kimberley Training Institute and Matso’s Broome Brewery.

The Norforce squadron will also be part of the line-up this year, and promise to look the part in “cam pants”.

Soldiers from Derby and Kununurra will head to Broome to join local members.

A Norforce team spokesman said the team was happy to be a part of this year’s race.

“To go out and win … that would be nice,” he said.

“But we will take it one race at a time. It will be a big day for everyone.”

The Regatta will be held at Town Beach this Saturday. The day will begin at 9.30am with the “dotting of the eyes” of the dragons and a short ceremony to “wake up” the dragons.

Racing starts with the first heat at 10am. A tug-of-war competition will also be held for people of all ages, and food and drinks will be available.