News from the Rowing Sheds

Winter Training

Our rowers have been working very hard in the gym since the start of last term. The gym sessions complement the on-water rowing on Sunday mornings. If your daughter is keen to join in with our very successful Rowing Program, please do not hesitate to contact Mr Pinelli: apinelli@smc.tas.edu.au

Try Rowing | Year 6 2026

What a great day was had recently when the current Year 6 SMC students visited the Rowing Sheds for the annual Try Rowing Day. All girls had the opportunity to inspect the shed, which features all of our rowing equipment, followed by some skill development in the gym on the ergs. They then spent time in an actual rowing boat that was tied to the ways so they could experience what it feels like before heading on the water in a rowing quad with senior rowers supporting them. 

Every Year 6 student who attended went out in a rowing shell, which is fantastic. Parents and carers of those girls who expressed interest should have received an email with details of a follow-up Sunday session, where families have been invited to learn a little more about the program.

Volunteers and Child Safety

All parents of rowers are strongly encouraged to complete the Child Safety and Volunteer Induction in readiness for the upcoming season. I would encourage ALL parents to do the Induction Briefing as it allows you to volunteer during the Rowing Season.

Opportunities where you need to have completed the induction:

* Coaching or Team Manager;                                                                         

* Powerboat driver;

* Breakfast Club;

* Pasta Night;                                                                                                   

* Boat Loading/Unloading;

* Canteen volunteering at regattas; to name just a few.

Please email Maria Walker (Risk and Compliance Officer) using whs@smc.tas.edu.au and the necessary details will be sent back to you to complete.

The rowers and I rely very heavily on our volunteers to ensure the success of the program, so please complete the above as soon as is possible.

As we head to the second half of Term 3, the official start to the 2026/2027 Rowing Season is fast approaching. Please find below some updates and notifications about upcoming events where your assistance will be invaluable.

Term 3 Gym sessions

For those girls who have been attending the Term 3 gym sessions, SMC will be sending a Sundry Expense account out very soon. Please ensure this is paid before the end of Term 3 through the Qkr! app.

Indoor Rowing Championships

This will be held in September at the Rowing Sheds. All SMC rowers are strongly encouraged to attend and compete. As there are quite a few details, I will send full information in a separate email. Please encourage your daughter to participate.

Fundraising | CLAIM THE DATE

We have two early-season opportunities to raise much-needed funds to support our athletes: 

1. Friday 16 October – Sunday 18 October: Admissions at Baskerville Racecourse. 

We will earn $100 per person, with each of the three days requiring 10–12 volunteers. Yes, some of our rowers will be able to assist over the weekend. Lunch is provided. Further details will be shared soon. Please mark at least one of these days on your calendar to help out.

2. Sunday 15 November: Point to Pinnacle 

For the last couple of years, we have run a number of drink stations for this event. Everyone's support again this year would be greatly appreciated. 

Registrations / fees for upcoming season

To date, Rowing Tas. has not notified us of the registration process and fees for the upcoming season. My understanding is that this information will be released soon. A similar process to last year is expected, with a $200 non-refundable registration fee for rowers due at the end of Term 3 or early Term 4, and the remainder payable before year's end. There will also be a registration fee for coxswains only. 

Purchasing Shoes

I am sorry this hasn't happened yet. I have samples available, but I've been waiting to share this opportunity with the SVC rowers so we can maximise the benefit for all families. Fittings and deposit payments will be able to be completed before the end of Term 3.

SMC Rowing Hoodies 

For students who are new to SMC rowing, I will be looking at placing a hoodie order once the Try Rowing days have finished for all current Year 6 students. 

Before School Training

For most rowers, this will not start until Term 4. We will need volunteers to assist with the Breakfast Club setting up. Jess McGregor will once again be coordinating this. Jess will make contact later this Term.