2021 HANDBOOK - Somerset College
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HANDBOOK 2021
HEAD COACH’S WELCOME TO SOMERSET ROWING 2021 A welcome to all rowers, families, coaches and supporters to the Somerset Rowing programme. It is a wonderful community club that allows our exceptional students to strive for state and national medals. Rowing provides a unique and challenging sporting experience which extends our students, helping them to develop physically, mentally and socially. The parents and supporters are also actively involved in supporting their children daily, as well as driving the fundraising efforts for our capital expenditure through the many initiatives. The Parents and Alumni rowers group continues to grow, adding to our ever-popular Corporate Challenge. Our student rowers continue to learn and develop as rowers in many aspects, through preparing and training to achieve their personal goals, from fitness and friendship, through to representing the College at the highest levels. In 2020 the Somerset Rowing team won six medals at the Regional School State Championships. The team took home two gold, one silver and three bronze medals, an improvement on just three medals the previous year. This result came from a growth in participation across the programme and pursuit of excellence. The Somerset College Rowing programme continues to develop from the infancy on the Tweed River in the 1980s, through the energy of all the diverse sections of the club. The programme has grown from borrowing equipment and squatting on several waterside sights, to an impressive fleet of boats that fill our own rowing shed. In 2020 the Somerset Rowing Committee continued to financially support the rowers with upgrades of equipment, allowing our rowers to compete in the best equipment available. Along with my fellow coaches, I look forward to sharing the enjoyment and challenges of rowing, helping to develop self-discipline, goal setting, time management, team commitment and a love of this great sport. We intend to provide a welcoming environment that can foster quality performance and personal best efforts. I wish our whole Rowing Community a healthy, successful and enjoyable 2021 rowing season. Mr Peer Richards Head Coach – Rowing Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 2
ROWING CAPTAINS SOMERSET ROWING 2021 Fergus McKeon Sofia Smith 3 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020
CONTENTS
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 College Leadership
1.2 Rowing Captains
1.3 Rowing Philosophy
1.4 Rowing Programme – Procedures and Expectations
1.5 Code of Conduct for Parents, Supporters and Friends
1.6 Code of Conduct for Rowers
1.7 Somerset Boat Club – Parents, Alumni and Supporter Group
1.8 Gold Coast All Schools’ Regional Rowing Association
2. BOAT SHED AND REGATTAS
2.1 Training – Expectations of Students
2.2 Rowing Policy and Selection Criteria
2.2.1 Policy
2.2.2 Coaches
2.2.3 Selection
2.2.4 All School Crews
2.2.5 Tours and Camps
2.2.6 Wet Weather
2.2.7 Transport of Students to and from Training
2.2.8 Age Divisions for Single Scull
2.2.9 Costs
2.3 Regattas
2.4 Regatta Dates 2021
2.5 Course Information and Directions
2.6 Training Times
2.7 Annual Overview
3. APPENDIX
3.1 Main Contacts
3.2 Coaches’ Contact Details
3.3 Somerset Boat Club – Parents, Alumni and Supporter Group Contacts
3.4 Rowing Rules
3.5 Pontoon Usage Guidelines
3.6 Important Rowing Terminology
3.7 Somerset Boat Shed Map
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 4
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 COLLEGE LEADERSHIP
• Craig Bassingthwaighte – Headmaster
• Craig Sayer – Dean of Activities
• Candice McKenna – Director of Sport
• Peer Richards – Head Coach – Rowing
Peer has rowed and coached for Australia at World Championship level and has been coaching all
levels of rowing for more than a decade. As a rower, he has won Australian Championships medals
in all boat classes and he endeavours to share his passion for the sport with the whole Rowing
programme.
• Olivia Sina – Rowing Coach
Olivia has had many years experience in the sport and is a past rowing captain of the College. She
has gained further experience in rowing through her involvement in College rowing and coaching
at school level in Brisbane. Olivia combines her studies to become a teacher with coaching at the
College.
• Gerald Thurnwald – Rowing Coach
Gerry has a wealth of experience of not only in rowing but cycling with a passion for endurance
sport. After getting involved as a past parent, Gerry now gives extremely generously to the rowing
programme, both as a coach, but as a supporter behind the scenes taking care of equipment and
helping with fundraisers.
• Emma Sturges – Strength and Conditioning Coach
As the Strength and Conditioning Coach of Somreset College, Emma brings vast experience as
an elite athlete and personal training. She will be utilising her Sports Science knowledge to help
develop beginner rowers right through to the Seniors.
• Annette Eastwood – Sports Physiologist and Nutritionist
Annette brings a wealth of experience in the monitoring and assessment of the athletes’
performance. Along with weekly monitoring sessions, athletes receive feedback on progress and
target training zones. She also proivdes nutrional advice for athlete development and race day
performance.
5 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020
1.2 ROWING CAPTAINS
2021 Fergus McKeon Sofia Smith
2020 Jack Daly Jordan Wilson
2019 Declan Thew Zara Smith
2018 Blake Mills Katherine Plume
2017 Ryan McClure Talia Varcoe
2016 Reuben Mansell Olivia Sina
2015 Liam Muenster Chloe Bischof
2014 Frasier Heath Anja Stols
2013 Xavier Power Konna Chakravarty
2012 Andrew Hodges Annabelle Plume
2011 Daniel Filer Angharad Webb
2010 Wilson Price Alison Barry
2009 Daniel Barrett Chelsey Grbcic
2008 Blake Carey Alexandra Roberts
2007 Cale Davis Heather McNeil
2006 Cale Davis Edda Hamar
2005 Daniel Blank Hannah Swan
1.3 ROWING PHILOSOPHY
• To teach students correct boat maintenance and handling skills and a respect for the equipment.
• To teach students the correct sculling technique.
• To develop the significance and role of coxswains in the club.
• To provide safe, reliable, well-maintained and competitive equipment.
• To encourage a sense of teamwork and discipline on and off the water.
• To promote good sportsmanship.
• To teach and reinforce safe practices on the water and around the shed.
• To enable students to compete successfully at Gold Coast regattas, and make available coaches
and equipment to allow students to compete successfully at State and National level.
• To allow for, and encourage, the professional development of coaching staff.
• To develop a strong club network through the active involvement of students, past students,
coaches, parents, master competitors, Somerset staff and friends of Somerset.
• To promote the Somerset Rowing Club as an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all involved.
1.4 ROWING PROGRAMME – PROCEDURES AND EXPECTATIONS
• Students are required to complete a 200 metre swim in swimmers, or a 100 metre swim clothed in
sports attire before being allowed to row for Somerset College.
• Students are to demonstrate the correct procedure for recovery into an upturned Single Scull
before being allowed to train or compete in this craft.
• No boats are permitted on the water without a bowball.
• All rowers are to stay on the far right hand side of the river (your left when rowing). Coaches are
responsible for enforcing this rule. If a rower does not stay on the correct side of the river and a
collision occurs, the rower will be deemed to be in the wrong and will be liable for the damages
incurred.
• All rowers are to stay in sight of a coach
• Boats will be rostered based on age, experience and level of expertise.
• Equipment must be returned to its original position on the rack and in the shed.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 6
• Private equipment is NEVER to be used without direct permission from the owner. Breach of this
rule will have serious consequences.
• Private equipment must be insured, with a certificate of currency provided to the College.
• Boats, oars and equipment must be well maintained. Students have the responsibility of washing
and cleaning boats after EVERY use.
• Boats will be carried at straight arm length, hull up when appropriate.
• Rowers must wear socks in shoed boats for hygiene reasons. Water bottles and hats are
compulsory.
• Repairs to boats must be done well away from the bank.
• Crews being overtaken must move out of the way of the faster crews and still remain on the
correct side of the waterway. If this is not possible, the slower crew must yell out to the faster crew.
• Rowers are not to hold on to the riggers whilst entering or exiting the craft. They will hold on to the
gunnels and will hold the oars while doing so.
• Rowers who mistreat equipment will be asked to leave the shed. Continual mistreatment will result
in loss of membership.
• All rowers are expected to help with the carrying of power boats to and from the water.
1.5 CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS, SUPPORTERS AND FRIENDS
Somerset College has clearly defined policies in place to define its commitment to the safety and well-
being of all within the College community including sporting clubs and associations.
Listed on the following page are guidelines of conduct which have been developed in order to support
these policies.
• Parents are requested to support and educate children as to the Somerset Rowing Club Code of
Conduct.
• To support the coaching staff.
• To be sensitive to pre-race preparations and post-race de-briefings.
• To cheer for all Somerset racing crews.
• To help create and support an enjoyable environment at regattas.
• To assist with the putting up and taking down of regatta tents and facilities.
• To applaud winning crews and recognise the good performance of other schools.
• To not compete with parents of other schools. The place for competition is on the water between
school crews and not their parents on the riverbank. The competition on the riverbank won’t make
your favourite crew row faster, as much as you might want them to.
• To be generous in offering Somerset hospitality to parents of other schools and help support
Somerset’s good reputation.
• To be mindful and respectful of the safety of others.
1.6 CODE OF CONDUCT FOR ROWERS
Somerset College has clearly defined policies in place to define its commitment to the safety and well-
being of all within the College community including sporting clubs and associations. Listed below are
guidelines of conduct which have been developed in order to support these policies.
• College and Somerset Rowing Club rules apply at all times.
• To not act in a manner unbecoming or contrary to the interests or good standing of the College or
the sport of Rowing.
• To treat all team mates, fellow rowers, competitors, parents, umpires and staff with respect.
• To treat all property with respect.
• To demonstrate a positive commitment to the sport of Rowing at Somerset and display ‘generous
rivalry’ during races against competing crews.
• To maintain good academic standards.
7 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020
• To be punctual and correctly attired.
• To follow dietary and training advice.
• To be helpful to coaches and eager to lend a hand in the organisation of the Rowing Club.
• To recognise, appreciate and applaud other competitors.
• To always maintain the highest athletic standards, to rigorously compete and demonstrate the
highest standards of sportsmanship.
• To be mindful and respectful of the safety of others.
1.7 SOMERSET BOAT CLUB – PARENTS, ALUMNI AND SUPPORTER
GROUP
1. Somerset Boat Club – Parents, Alumni and Supporter Group (SBC – PAS) is an avenue for
Somerset Alumni, parents of past and present Somerset College students and recent participants
of the Somerset College Corporate Rowing competition within the framework of the Somerset
Boat Club. The aim of the group is to allow its members to participate in recreational rowing, and
occasional competitions, using the Somerset College rowing facilities and equipment, with the
primary goal of supporting the student rowers and enjoying rowing without impeding Somerset
Rowing and its responsibilities to train its student (or other) rowers.
2. Membership to the group will be strictly limited to people who have directly, or indirectly, supported
Somerset Rowing. The membership will therefore be limited to past and present parents of
Somerset students, Alumni of Somerset who were paid-up members of Somerset Rowing, past
and present staff of Somerset College and people who have competed in the Somerset Corporate
Rowing Challenge within the last year.
3. The membership will be divided into three grades of rower: accomplished, general and single
sculler. An accomplished rower is one whose skills and technique are sufficient for them to be
able to take first time rowers in either a double or quad scull safely. Accomplished rowers will be
accredited by their ability and responsibility by the appointed group leader and/or the Head Coach
of Somerset Rowing.
a. Accomplished rowers need to be able to safely lead a group of rowers, supervise their boat
handling, prepare and pack away boats, and open and secure the rowing shed. Ensuring that all
aspects of traffic rules, boat handling and the areas of the induction sheet are adhered to.
4. Rowing coaching: Somerset Coaching equipment will be available for use by the
SBC – PAS group.
a. Only coaches who are approved by the Somerset College Head Coach
b. Coaches must have their boat licence and coaching accreditation registered with the Head
Coach.
5. Safety will be paramount when rowing within the association. Under no circumstances will any
member be allowed to row on their own. A member must always be within sight of another member
of the group, a coach or other person deemed responsible by Somerset Rowing.
a. No general member may row a Single Scull or pair without a coach. No more than one general
member may row in a Double Scull without a coach. No more than two general members may row
in a Quad Scull or four without a coach.
b. The crew of a boat must report any damage to equipment or facilities to Somerset Rowing. The
crew of a boat will be responsible for any damage that they cause.
c. It is the responsibility of accomplished members and coaches to explain the rules and regulations
surrounding the use of boats on the Gold Coast waterways. Crews must keep to right hand side of
the waterway (relative to the direction of travel – left hand side for rowers), unless otherwise directed
by a coach, and be aware of other traffic on the waterway.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 8
6. All rowers must undertake the induction for safety and traffic flow and understand their
responsibilities, on the water and around the shed.
7. It is recommended that all crews carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag in case of difficulty.
8. All rowing sessions will be arranged in advance.
a. Members will not be able to attend sessions on an "ad-hoc" basis.
b. Wherever possible, session times should be arranged outside those which are
normal for Somerset Rowing activities to minimise any inconvenience on
Somerset Rowing.
c. Somerset Rowing – Head Coach will advise the association on equipment that
may be used at these times. Where any such equipment appears unsuitable
for use (because of damage, maintenance being carried out or any other reason),
the equipment should not be used.
d. Where a suitable replacement within the list of approved equipment is not
available, Somerset Rowing – Head Coach should be contacted for advice. When
Somerset Rowing – Head Coach cannot be contacted, the session should be
restructured to make use of the available equipment. Under no circumstances may
equipment be used without the authority of Somerset Rowing – Head Coach.
9. Somerset Rowing will provide the group access to the boat shed for rowing sessions under the
supervision of a coach or an accomplished rower.
10. The Somerset Boat Club will levy an annual charge, payable in advance, which will be paid to
Somerset Rowing in return for the use of its facilities and equipment. Where appropriate, Somerset
Rowing will arrange registration with Rowing Queensland. Whilst there is no binding obligation
on the use of the funds raised by the annual charge (or any other fundraising activity by the
organisation paid to Somerset Rowing) it is envisaged, where agreed between Somerset Rowing
and the group, part of the funds will be used to provide equipment requested for the organisation.
11. The group will be managed by a committee with a minimum of three members (or the full
membership if less than three members are in the association). The members of the committee
will be elected by the membership every year. The committee will be responsible for co-ordinating
with Somerset Rowing, approving memberships and arranging both the day-to-day running of the
association and strategic planning. The committee will always act in the best interests of both the
group and Somerset Rowing.
12. At least one of the SBC – PAS committee will hold a position on the Somerset Rowing Committee.
13. At least one of the SBC – PAS committee will be responsible for each session.
1.8 GOLD COAST REGION ALL SCHOOLS’ ROWING ASSOCIATION
(GCRASRA)
The Gold Coast Region All Schools’ Rowing Association was formed in 2000 with the main aim of
promoting Rowing in the Gold Coast region for all schools. The first few regattas of the year are run
by the GCRASRA. The schools in GCRASRA will host a series of four regattas, which are an excellent
introduction to regattas and provide good local competition at Lake Orr, Coomera and Wyaralong.
9 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020
2. BOAT SHED AND REGATTAS
2.1 TRAINING – EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
• Sports uniform or zoot suit is to be worn to training every day except on Saturday.
• A minimum of two training sessions each week is expected from each rower. Action will be taken
if a student is constantly absent.
• In Quad Sculls, the coxswain has the responsibility of making sure that they can be heard by all
crew members.
• Transport may be provided to the College after morning training.
• Parents are most welcome to join the coaches at training by request.
ROWING MORNING TRAINING
5.45am Drop off at the Somerset Rowing Shed
7.45am Pick up if going home before going to school
ROWING AFTERNOON TRAINING
3.45pm Bus departs bus shelter near Performing Arts Centre
5.45pm Pick up at Somerset Rowing Shed
6.00pm Pick up at Fitness Centre on Sara Carrigan Court
GYM MORNING TRAINING
7.00am Drop off
8.00am Finish training
GYM AFTERNOON TRAINING
3.30pm Start training
5.00pm Finish training
Coaches will try to adhere to these finish times, but rowers are needed to do their duties in a timely and
effective manner to ensure that we can all finish on time.
Please be aware if you cannot be collected at the Boat Shed by the specified time, you will be taken to
the College.
2.2 ROWING POLICY AND SELECTION CRITERIA
2.2.1 POLICY
Rowing has been a very successful sport at Somerset College and it is now the intention and
responsibility of all currently involved to maintain this tradition and build upon it with new ideas and
innovations. Of course, we should not forget the basic and fundamental requirements of any Rowing
Programme, hence the information provided in this handbook, which we hope will give parents and
rowers an idea of how the club operates.
2.2.2 COACHES
All coaches are asked to ensure safety is a priority in any activity associated with Rowing. Injury
prevention is paramount. Each coach owes a duty of care to his or her charges. Every coach is intent
on allowing each student the opportunity to achieve his or her true potential, at whatever level that may
be.
2.2.3 SELECTION
In all squads, every student must show a commitment to rowing and a willingness to co-operate with
both the crew, coach and the Head Coach – Rowing. Individual performance will provide the basis for
crew selection, performances in Single Sculls, crew boats and rowing ergometres. From this basis, trust
and team spirit can be developed and help bring success. Training attendance and availability in the
lead up to particular events will also be taken into account in the lead up to regattas.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 102.2.4 COLLEGE CREWS
All rowers at Somerset should fulfil the following selection criteria over and above those set out
for each age group.
1. Display team commitment whilst achieving individual goals for selection.
2. Show commitment to achieving potential in every area of College life.
3. If a student wishes to leave Rowing after signing on, the procedure is:
(a) Inform the Coach.
(b) Inform the Head Coach – Rowing
(c) Present a letter or email from the parents to confirm that the child no longer
wishes to row.
This will enable us to keep a close check on the rowing membership.
4. If, after consultation with the parents, the Head Coach – Rowing feels that a student is
not fulfilling the above criteria and/or is having a detrimental effect on crew and shed
morale, the student will be asked to leave the Rowing Club.
2.2.5 TOURS AND CAMPS
Each year, Somerset competes in a number of regattas that requires the club to organise travel
and accommodation.
All rowers competing for Somerset College at these regattas are required to travel and
stay with the members of the club and will be under the direction of attending staff. This is
consistent with the College policy across all sports. Only under exceptional circumstances will
a member of the squad be given permission to make alternative travel and accommodation
arrangements. Special arrangements will be considered when submitted in writing from the
parent to the Head Coach – Rowing.
2.2.6 WET WEATHER
Very few sessions are cancelled due to inclement weather conditions. A decision will be made
at the Bond University car park as to whether the rowers will train on the Lake or at the College
gym if conditions are marginal. If conditions are particularly bad, the coach will attempt to send
a text message to the rower or parent by 5.40am to cancel all training for that morning.
2.2.7 TRANSPORT OF STUDENTS TO AND FROM TRAINING
The College bus will be available to transport rowers to school after training in the mornings.
If the bus has too many students or is not available, Rowing Coaches may, on occasion,
transport the rowers to school in private vehicles.
The College will provide transport to the Boat Shed at Bond University in the afternoons for
Rowing sessions after school. For Saturday morning sessions pick up and drop off is the
responsibility of the parents.
2.2.8 AGE DIVISIONS FOR SINGLE SCULL 2021
Opens Students born prior to, or in 2004
Under 17 Students born in 2005 or after
Under 16 Students born in 2006 or after
Under 15 Students born in 2007 or after
Under 14 Students born in 2008 or after
2.2.9 COSTS
$210 per term, per student.
11 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020Costs Include:
• Registration and Membership to GCRASRA and Rowing Queensland ($90.00)
• Equipment upgrades
• Maintenance of fleet
• Fuel and maintenance of power boats
• Entry fees to GCRASRA regattas
• Coaching fees
Costs Do Not Include:
• Camps
• Travel expenses for regattas
• Repair for deliberate or careless damage to equipment
• Zoot suit, hat or rowing shirt
• Entry fees for Rowing Queensland Regattas, NSW Rowing Association Regattas and Rowing
Australia Regattas.
2.3 REGATTAS
Gold Coast All Schools’ Regatta:
1. The loading of the trailer will take place on a Friday afternoon after sport and will be loaded by ALL
rowers from Years 10 to 12. If you are unavailable, you need to communicate this to the Head
Coach prior to the regatta to make alternative arrangements.
2. ALL rowers are to assist with the unloading of the trailer at the regatta. There is no exception
from this. Students must be at the venue helping at 7.00am. Some help from parents is generally
needed, as the setting up of tents also takes place at this time.
3. Competition typically starts at 8.00am.
4. The regatta generally finishes at around 3.00pm. ALL students are required to help load the trailer
and assistance from the parents is appreciated.
5. Unloading will take place at the Boat Shed at around 4.00pm. Years 8 and 9 students will be
responsible for unloading, washing and rigging of the boats. If you are unavailable, you need to
communicate this to the Head Coach prior to the regatta to make alternative arrangements.
6. Owners of private boats are required to load and unload their own boats if they intend to row in
them. If an owner fails to load their own boat, it will not be at the regatta for them. If they do not
appear at unloading, their boat will remain on the trailer.
7. It is expected that all rowers will stay for presentations and the loading of the trailer. If a rower
must leave early, they are expected to inform the Head Coach – Rowing and the appropriate
coach prior to the day. Letting your coach know on the day that you have to leave early is not
acceptable. The Gold Coast Region All Schools’ Rowing Association (GCRASRA) puts a great
deal of effort into organising these regattas and their efforts need to be acknowledged by having
all rowers receive their medals during the presentation ceremony and by the congratulation of
others
8. Every effort is made to give students at least two races per regatta and it is expected that all
rowers, when proficient, race in Single Sculls. Students are to wear their school sports uniform or
school tracksuit to, from and at the regatta. Regattas are inter-school events just like APS Cross
Country and Athletics, so not wearing the correct uniform is inexcusable. Once committed to the
sport, students are also expected to wear the College sports hat or Rowing cap whilst competing.
The Somerset uniform is the only attire permitted at regattas; students wearing other clothing or
hats will be asked to remove them. Please be aware that zoot suits are not required for Year 8 at
regattas.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 122.4 ROWING DATES FOR 2021 (please note: all dates are subject to change)
January 25 Start Term One
February 20 Capsize Drill - Somerset College Pool
Annual General Meeting - Swimming Pool Function Room
New Parents and Rowers Information Session - Pool Function Room
27 March Inter-House Rowing Regatta - Somerset Rowing Shed - Cancelled
April 19 Start Term Two
24 GCRASRA- Somerset Rowing Regatta - Coomera Lake: Damian Leeding
Memorial Park
May 8 GCRASRA Rowing Regatta 2 - Coomera Lake: Damian Leeding Memorial Park
15 GCRASRA Rowing Regatta 3 - Coomera Lake: Damian Leeding
Memorial Park
TBC Somerset Rowing Trivia Night - Great Hall
29 GCRASRA Trophy Regatta - Wyaralong Dam
July 12 Start Term Three
17 to 18 South Queensland Rowing Championships - Wyaralong Dam
South Coast Regional Rowing Team trials - Wyaralong Dam
TBC - Sept. Gold Coast Open Schools Regatta - Wyaralong Dam
Sept. 17 to 21 Queensland Rowing Championships -Rockhampton
October 5 Start Term Four
9 Rowing: Corporate Challenge Start Up - Somerset Rowing Shed
10 Rowing: Corporate Challenge Start Up - Somerset Rowing Shed
19 Rowing: Annual Awards Dinner - Ray Dining Room
Nov. 13 to 14 Try Rowing - Somerset School Pool
20 Rowing: Corporate Challenge Regatta - Somerset Rowing Shed/Dunlops Canal
Rowing: Corporate Challenge Dinner - Year 11 Common Room
27 Term Four Finishes
29 Learn to Row starts– Somerset Boat Shed
Dec. 7 to 13 New Zealand tour, including Karapiro Christmas Regatta
13 Somerset Rowing Handbook 20202.5 COURSE INFORMATION AND DIRECTION
MURWILLUMBAH
This is one of the better courses in the Gold Coast/Northern New South Wales area. The course itself
is 2000 metres. The very first turn on the right after the mill is the one you need to take; be sure not to
miss it. This is Cane Road. Continue along it to the first turn on the left: Tumbulgum Road. When you
see some houses coming up, look out on the left for the club. Parking is on Tumbulgum Road, not in
the club.
COOMERA LAKE
This lake is a 1000 metre rowing course and was used for GCRASRA regattas for the first time in 2010.
To get to Coomera Lakes, take the Oxenford exit off the motorway. Turn left at the exit and then take
the first right at the traffic lights. Travel north less than 1km and turn left into the car park. If you cross
the river, you have gone too far.
FITZROY RIVER BARRAGE, ROCKHAMPTON
This is another 2000 metre buoyed course. The course at Rockhampton is one of the best in
Queensland.
WYARALONG LAKE
Situated approximately 10 minutes drive from Beaudesert, Wyaralong Lake is set to become
Queensland’s own international-standard rowing course. With the support of the Queensland
Government and Rowing Queensland the on-land facilities will be developed to match the fully buoyed
2000 metre course.
2.6 ANNUAL OUTLINE
TERM ONE
For the majority of the students, Term One is an introductory phase of the Rowing season.
New rowers to the club will be learning many skills to allow them to train and compete safely. Term One
Rowing culminates with the Somerset Inter-House Regatta, where new rowers are able to experience
their first racing experience in a friendly, but competitive environment as well as having the opportunity
to row with some of the more experienced rowers.
The Australian Rowing Championships are held early in Term One. See the details below regarding
Australian Championships
TERM TWO
This is a very busy period for College Rowing, with the Club Trivia Night held early in the term and the
GCRASRA holding four regattas in this time.
TERM THREE
The Queensland Schools Rowing Championships provide the culmination of the College Rowing
season and is our major objective for Term Three.
All rowers are allowed to train through this period, but there are limited numbers for State
Championships so selection will be performance based. State Championships is a major focus for the
Rowing Programme.
TERM FOUR
The annual Rowing Awards Dinner is held at this time and for most rowers Term Four is a rest period,
with no-one rowing until after exams.
Training for the Nationals Squad will recommence training immediately after end of year exams.
HOLIDAY ROWING
Details for training and events in the school holidays will be published on Schoolbox towards the end of
each term.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 14NATIONALS SQUAD TRAINING
It is the ultimate aim of Somerset College Rowing to send a Boys’ and a Girls’ Quad Scull or Four to
compete at the Australian Championships. Training for this is through the summer period. Please be
aware of the dates for the training if you intend to try out for these crews. Numbers will be limited and
selection will be performance based.
An information evening will be held for students and parents prior to the end of year exam period.
3. APPENDIX
3.1 MAIN CONTACTS ROWING ENQUIRIES
Mr Peer Richards Mobile: 0408 826 057 Work: 0404 458 728
Email: prichards@somerset.qld.edu.au
Rowing Committee Will be decided at the AGM on 20 Feburary 2021
3.2 SOMERSET BOAT CLUB – PARENTS, ALUMNI AND SUPPORTER
GROUP CONTACTS
Alumni - Boat Club
Liaison 1 - Troy Kay Mobile: 0405 382 818
Liaison 2 - Jolien Hornsey Mobile: 0466 343 933
Secretary - Sue Heath Mobile: 0418 454 232
3.3 ROWING RULES
• Always, keep the riverbank to your extreme left.
• Do not proceed out into the middle of the river unless you are overtaking a slower craft, and even
then be very cautious of traffic heading in the opposite direction.
• Craft being overtaken must give way to the overtaking craft.
• Never enter the middle of the river unless you are turning around.
• Boats entering or returning from the canals must give way to crews training on the small lake and
must follow the traffic flow.
• Upon leaving the club, fixing up of boats is to be done well away from the beach.
• Proceed to pass close to the river bank and follow a large arc through the bridge, making sure to
check for traffic entering the bridge, moving down towards or coming from the weir before you
proceed to cross under the bridge. Inbound traffic must create a wide arc towards the pontoon
and clear the area as quickly as possible once out of the boat.
15 Somerset Rowing Handbook 20203.4 PONTOON USAGE GUIDELINES
• All crew members must pay attention and follow directions when handling the boats on the
pontoon to avoid damaging the equipment.
• Outgoing crews must put oars in the gates and exit the pontoon as quickly as possible.
• When boating in Quads, oars are to be left on the grassed area until the boat is on the water
and one crew member and the coxswain should hold the boat whilst the remainder of the crew
quickly retrieves the oars.
• Incoming crews must give way to outgoing crews and stay well clear to allow for safe passage.
Incoming crews must remove their oars from the pontoon immediately after putting boat on
the trestles.
3.5 IMPORTANT ROWING TERMINOLOGY
These are a collection of terms that are used by the coxswain, coach or person in the boat
responsible
for directing the crew.
“EASY OAR” or “EASY”
STOP ROWING! Sit in the finish position and hold your hands straight out in front of you.
“TAP UP”
Short rowing strokes to manoeuvre the boat in the forward direction. Normally done with arms only,
pulling the blade towards your body. “Touching” is very important for regattas to align the boat at the
start of a race (done with one hand at a time to point the boat in the right direction).
“BACK IT DOWN”
This is the reverse of touching also used for manoeuvring the boat. It may need to be done with one
hand at a time or both hands to go backwards (very important to avoid crashes).
“CHECK THE BOAT” OR “CHECK IT”
This is where the rowers dig their oars in the water to stop the boat quickly. This is also very important
to avoid crashes.
“FINISH POSITION”
This is the position where the rower takes the blades out of the water. Can be used as a starting point
for the crew when training.
“CATCH POSITION”
This is the position where the stroke starts and is the position where racing starts from.
“STROKE SEAT” OR “STROKE”
This is the name given to the person sitting in the rowing seat closest to the stern of the boat. The
stroke is responsible for setting the rhythm and timing of the boat.
“BOW SEAT” OR “BOW”
This is the name given to the person sitting in the rowing seat closest to the bow of the boat.
“2 SEAT ” AND “3 SEAT”
These seats are numbered in order from the bow. It is important to know which seat you are sitting in, in
case the coach or coxswain needs to give you instructions.
“BOW PAIR”
The two rowers closest to the bow of the boat (bow and 2).
“STERN PAIR”
The two rowers closest to the stern of the boat (stroke and 3).
BLADE
This is the wide, flat section on the oar at the head of the shaft, also known as the spoon. This term is
often used when referring to the entire oar.
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 16BOW SIDE
Side of the boat to your left when you are rowing.
BUTTON
It is a plastic fitting tightened on the oar to prevent it from slipping through the gate and to adjust the
gearing of the oar. The yellow plastic piece on the Croker oars.
CANVAS
The decked over section of the bow. This term is also used to describe how far a crew was in front or
behind another.
COXSWAIN (COX)
The person who steers the boat in Quad Sculls and directs the crew.
COLLAR
The protective plastic piece of the oar that sits in the gate. The bright pink piece on the Croker oars.
CRAB
This is a problem encountered by a rower when their oar fails to be released from the water at the end
of the stroke. It is caused by improper squaring or feathering, and is a common problem with new
rowers.
FEATHERING
The process of rotating the oar in the fingers to make the blade parallel to the water’s surface.
FOOT STRETCHER
An adjustable bracket to which the rower is secured by putting their feet in the shoes or clogs.
GATE
Used to be called an oarlock and is used to fasten the oar to the boat.
RATING
How fast you are moving up and down the slide. This is measured in Strokes Per Minute, or SPM. For
example a rating of 16 is slow, a rating of 38 is fast.
RIGGER
The big metal part that connects the gate to the boat hull. It can either be a wing rigger, which is one
large, almost wing-shaped piece of metal, or a conventional rigger, which bolts on the side of the boast.
SCULL (SINGLE)
A term used to describe a one-person boat or a boat in which a rower has two oars each.
SLIDE
The track that the seat moves on.
SQUARING
The process of making your blade perpendicular to the water’s surface.
STROKE SIDE
The side on your right when rowing.
17 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020NAME THE PARTS
1 2
3 4 5
1. Shaft
2. Sleeve
3. Handle
4. Button
5. Blade
1 2
3
4 8
5
7
6
1. Gate
2. Trestle
3. Rigger
4. Seat
5. Gunwale
6. Slides
7. Footstretcher
8. Stern
Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020 18FINISH POSITION Finish position is the point where the rower leans back without dropping down into the boast, maintaining good posture. Finish position is where the blade should exit the water at the end of the drive phase. CATCH POSITION Catch position is the furthermost point that the rower can reach whilst maintaining good posture. Catch position is where the blade should enter the water for the drive phase. CROSS OVER Left hand above right hand. Left hand in front of right hand. Hands close together. SQUARED BLADE Blade is vertical and the correct angle for the drive phase. CORRECT GRIP Thumbs on end of the handle, wrists flat, fingers wrapped around the grip. FEATHERED BLADE Blade horizontal. Correct blade angle and grip during recovery phase.
3.6 SOMERSET BOAT SHED
Lake Orr
Lake Orr
Som
erse
t Bo
at S
hed
University Drive
20 Somerset Rowing Handbook 2020Somerset College
ABN 54 010 343 227
Somerset Drive Mudgeeraba
Queensland 4213
Telephone 07 5559 7100
Facsimile 07 5559 7345
mail@somerset.qld.edu.au
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