We train in all weather conditions!!
Just because it’s raining, don’t think we don’t train!!! Nothing stops us!! If weather is adverse there’s always a technique sesh in the Community Hall or the odd gym session! 
So come prepared!
Training Location
Sports House,
337 Christine Avenue,
Varsity Lakes
Gold Coast
Our race calendar starts in June and runs through until April, ending with the Australian Championships, so training reflects the race calendar.
On Water Sessions are currently held on the beautiful Lake Orr and run:
Tuesday & Thursday nights - meet at 5.30pm for warm up/land session then on water for 6pm.
Saturday Morning Sessions: meet at 7.30 for 8am on the water.
A Sunday afternoon session is available also. Please meet at 2.30 for 3pm on the water. This is a perfect opportunity to see your stroke in the daylight, and a great excuse to have a social gathering after the training session!
Newcomers are most welcome and it is the perfect time to start. This part of the training plan is all about back to basics! Technique will be our focus but mostly it will be all about having fun on the water! The sessions will increase with intensity heading towards the end of the year, so best to jump on board now if you are thinking about it..don’t delay come join us!
Don’t forget if you can’t make a training session, please advise one of our coaching staff so they know what boats to take out prior to the session starting.
What to Bring/Wear
Most paddlers wear a singlet or wetshirt and wet-suit pants, but during winter, a thermal is very handy. When you are trying out dragon boating for the first time however, a t-shirt and shorts will suffice.
As much as we don’t like to admit it though, sometimes we do get wet. So make sure you bring a towel and a warm change of clothes.
A water bottle is also essential due to the length of the training session. Other essentials include cap, sunglasses and sunscreen. All other equipment is supplied.
Costs
When a person is interested in trying out dragon boating, they can “come and try” and attend three training sessions, before having to pay any fees. On the completion of the 3rd training session, they will need to make a decision on whether they would like to join up as a member of Gold Coast Dragons. If you are a new member, unfortunately after the 3rd paddle, for insurance reasons we won’t be able to allow you in the boat until you have paid all or part of your fees. The Queensland Dragon Boat Federation fee is Compulsory after your 3rd paddle, so please help us out by having this money ready if you wish to continue.
Our Fees for 2011/2012 Season
Adult: $180
Full Time Student: $90
Family Fees : 2 adults full payment of $180, first child $45 and every child after that is free.
Fees are due on 1st August annually and includes your Queensland Dragon Boat Federation Insurance.
One of the best things about Gold Coast Dragons is our coaches. Unlike many other clubs we do not have one coach, but rather a team of coaches. This makes sure that there is always someone on hand to provide guidance and lead the training sessions. Our coaches never ask anything of us that they aren’t prepared to do themselves. They are some of the fittest members of our crew and all have represented Australia in successive World Titles. The following paddlers make up our coaching staff but are also supported by a number of long standing paddlers
Ian Peters: Head Coach
Barry Young: Assistant Coach
Robyn McMullan: Assistant Coach