Bugler, Kathryn Clark from the Glenferrie Brass Band and James Dewar who read the Ode.

Good morning everyone,

On behalf of the HRC Committee, I’d like to warmly welcome you all to the Hawthorn Rowing Club as we come together to commemorate ANZAC Day. It’s fantastic to see such a large turnout.

This day holds a special place in our club’s history and traditions. Each year, we honour our members who have served their country through club racing on the Yarra, followed by a ceremony at our war memorial, located in the parkland just to the north-east of the clubhouse, and culminating in a social gathering back at the clubhouse.

Our memorial, erected in October 1919, is one of the earliest ANZAC memorials in Australia. It stands as a lasting tribute to those members of our club who gave their lives in service during the First World War and in conflicts since. As noted in the Weekly Times of 25 October 1919, the memorial, generously supported by the family of Lieutenant Claude Guy, was unveiled before a large gathering, with rowing, music, and community at its heart. That spirit of remembrance and fellowship continues today. The memorial remains a powerful reminder of the deep connection between our sporting community and the broader history of service and sacrifice.

In addition to our own members, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to rowers and or connections from other Victorian clubs, and especially to our friends from the New Zealand Wellington Rowing Club. Your presence today makes this a truly ANZAC occasion, reflecting the shared bonds between our nations.

Today is both a celebration and a moment of reflection. We celebrate the sport we love here on the Yarra River and the camaraderie it brings. But we also pause to remember those who are no longer with us, those who served, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

In a world where conflict still exists, this day reminds us why remembrance matters. It reminds us of the cost of war, the value of peace, and the importance of community.

Thank you all for being here today. We look forward to sharing this meaningful day with you.

Kei wareware tatou.

Lest we forget.

Frances Graham

Club Secretary.

Kerri Davies, granddaughter of Corporal Tasman Roy Davies killed in WW1 and whose name is etched on the HRC memorial leading us to the Memorial. — **Kerri Davies**, granddaughter of Corporal Tasman Roy Davies, killed in WW1 (whose name is etched on the HRC memorial) leading us to the Memorial.

ANZAC DAY CLUB RACES

Our visiting New Zealand crew from the Wellington Rowing Club (see below) having a training row on Saturday, who joined us on Sunday.

After the races…

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Head of the Yarra 2026 Sponsors!

The Hawthorn Rowing Club is seeking additional sponsors for the Head of the Yarra 2026 event, to help us build on the success of past events. If Members have direct contact (through work, friendship or some other direct association) with potential HOTY corporate sponsors, please provide contact details to either Simon Watts ( sponsorship@hawthornrowingclub.com) or Rob Perkins (chair@headoftheyarra.com). we would be pleased to talk to any potential sponsors and share our sponsorship document with them.

Simon Watts

HOTY History

***Head of the Yarra - 28th November 2026.***

HOTY history by numbers

Entries

Looking forwards from the first HOTY in 1957 to today, it is a huge achievement for the Hawthorn Rowing Club to have built this event from an idea to a world class event. With 11 boats in the first regatta, it took another 40 years to 1997 before we passed 100 boats. Thereafter it took another 12 years, and we passed 200 and another seven and we passed 250 boats on the water.

Creswick St. trailer parking November 2025.

The inevitable question is “will we pass 300 and be able to handle those numbers efficiently and safely?” That is a question that is exercising the minds of the HOTY organising committee. The demand is there but we need to ensure we have the volunteers to support the event and the physical capacity to ensure we maintain usual very high standard that HOTY has earned within the rowing community.

Make up of entries

Today, HOTY is an event of national and Trans-Tasman significance. Whilst Victorian numbers are significant, the growth in the event has been driven by predominantly masters crews from interstate and New Zealand.

In the first 40 years we had significant schools entries but these have largely disappeared, to be replaced by other crews. The HOTY committee is investigating whether schools can still be part of the HOTY event going forward.

The winning times

The winning times are interesting:

1957 34 min 19 sec

1963 29 min 37 sec

1988 25 min 43 sec

2015 24min 40 sec (the current course record)

What does this tell us? That times have hardly changed in 40 years. Technology has changed enormously but the times have not. Is it because HOTY is the ultimate coxswain’s course? No doubt there are opinions as to why. Perhaps we should enter a few old boats and sets of wooden oars (just like Banks below from 1989 HOTY) and find out!

Some fun facts

· HOTY was run in February from 1957 to 2001 when it then changed (in the same year by running twice!) to the now traditional November date – all to avoid the heat. Somehow that did not work in 2024!!

· Start times were 3pm back in the day when entries were at a more modest level. It has gradually moved to 11am start (2011), 10.30 start (2017), 9am start (2018) and now the 8am from 2025. All to accommodate the growing numbers

· The first female crew entries were accepted in 1982

· T shirts were introduced in 2011 for all competitors and not just winners

· There are 15 current members (you know who you are!) who have notched up more than 20 years of HOTY service. Six have more than 30 years and a couple are nudging 40 years. The inaugural secretary/chair of HOTY Stan Jeffrey served for 44 years. Perhaps it is time to recognise these quiet servants of the club.

So as 2026 HOTY comes around on 28th November it is time to put that date in the diary and get involved in one of the greatest rowing events this side of the equator. See you there!

Rob Perkins

Chair, Head of the Yarra Committee 2026

rob@perkinsgroup.com.au

tel 0411 402 832

Social, Training and Learning to Row.

As usual, another busy month at HRC. This month’s photos show the ‘Saturday morning long row’ which runs from 8am-11am (usually!). Sometimes an eight or quads.

This month, we welcome Hugo French, Pippa Smith, Archie Critchell and Jackson Morrish to the Club. As you can see there are plenty of opportunities to row at HRC.

J.B’s. Trivia

Q. 1: Which animal is 30 times more likely to be hit by lightning than humans?

Q. 2: In Australia its called Fairy Floss, in US Cotton Candy. What’s it called in the UK?

Q. 3: If you travelled due south from Detroit Michigan, which country would you reach first?

Q. 4: What is the official title of Princess Anne?

Q. 5: The ‘Dickin Medal’ instituted in 1943, was a wartime gallantry medal awarded to whom?

A. 1: ‍Giraffes. A. 2: Candy Floss A. 3:‍ Canada ‍A. 4:‍ The Princess Royal. ‍A. 5: Animals.

Brought to you by:

J.B. Stewart.

The Bridge Hotel

supports Hawthorn Rowing Club through it’s loyalty club.

Simon Watts – Member of the Month

This month, we’re proud to recognise Simon Watts as our Member of the Month—a truly deserving choice.

Simon is one of those rare people who quietly but consistently keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes. His tireless work on the Head of the Yarra Committee has made a real impact, helping ensure one of our most important events runs smoothly and successfully.

Recently, Simon went above and beyond by securing sponsorship for two Concept2 bikes—an incredible contribution that benefits the entire club. As if that weren’t enough, he has also stepped up to coordinate the Learn to Row Program, playing a key role in welcoming and developing the next generation of rowers.

What really sets Simon apart is his attitude. No task is too big or too small—he’s always ready to lend a hand wherever it’s needed. And he does it all with genuine warmth and good humour. Simply put, he’s one hell of a nice guy and a valued part of our community.

Simon, thank you for everything you do. This recognition is well earned.

Julie-ann Cotchin

Follow this link to donate to Max’s campaign:https://asf.org.au/campaigns/hawthorn-rowing-club/max-currie-s-u23-worlds-campain-in-duisburg-germany

See full details below:

Regatta News

11/4/2026 Sat Albert Park Lake Masters Regatta hosted by Rowing Victoria on Albert Park Lake

MM4+Carrum/Hawthorn
S.O'Connor-Smith [HAWTH], C.Tulloch [HAWTH], D.Holman [CARM], S.Gilbert [CARM], Cox: A.Everett [CARM] 1st NTT

🥇 5. MM4X+ M.Oliver, P.Sedawie, J.Stewart, S.Watts, Cox: G.Besley 1st.

XM4X+ P.Freeland-Small, L.Judge, P.Wilson, D.Horne, Cox: G.Besley 2nd
🥇 J.Wheelahan, R.Blackwell, B.Olayos, L.Olayos, Cox: C.Ashley 1st

Lake Eildon Composite
D.Welsh [LERC], E.McFarlane [ADFRC], R.James [HAWTH], M.Laing [LERC], Cox: G.Besley [HAWTH]3rd

8. MM4-
🥇 S.O'Connor-Smith [HAWTH], C.Tulloch [HAWTH], D.Holman [CARM], S.Gilbert [CARM]1st

FM4+ F.Graham, N.Kinsman, J.Cotchin, M.Watts, Cox: G.Besley 2nd

FM1X A.Shub 3rd

XM8+ P.Freeland-Small, R.Blackwell, S.Watts, B.Olayos, J.Wheelahan, L.Judge, E.Williamson, A.Shub, Cox: C.Ashley 4th

🥇 MM4X L.McIntyre [NRC], M.Oliver [HAWTH], J.Stewart [HAWTH], A.Horsburgh [NRC] 1st

FM4 L.Olayos, R.Blake, D.Horne, R.Oliver 2nd

FM4X+ M.Watts, N.Kinsman, V.Hamilton, F.Graham, Cox: G.Besley 2nd

🥇 MM8+ N.Inglis [YARRA], D.Jacka [YARRA], C.Tulloch [HAWTH], B.Lucadou-Wells [YARRA], J.Negri [YARRA], D.Holman [CARM], S.Gilbert [CARM], S.O'Connor-Smith [HAWTH], Cox: A.Everett [CARM] 1st

XM4X P.Sedawie, P.Wilson, E.Williamson, L.Judge 3rd
🥇 J.Wheelahan [HAWTH], L.McIntyre [NRC], A.Horsburgh [NRC], W.Cotter [NRC] 1st

FM4X- R.Oliver, M.Watts, J.Cotchin, F.Graham 2nd

MM2X S.Watts, R.Blackwell 3rd
P.Freeland-Small, B.Olayos 3rd
🥇 M.Oliver, J.Stewart 1st

XM2X J.Roots [RLRC], R.James [HAWTH] 3rd

FM8+ M.Watts, D.Horne, J.Cotchin, R.Blake, V.Hamilton, L.Olayos, N.Kinsman, J.Wheelahan, Cox: G.Besley 3rd

🥇 MM4+ S.Watts, J.Stewart, B.Olayos, P.Freeland-Small, Cox: C.Ashley 1st

🥇 MM2- S.O'Connor-Smith, C.Tulloch 1st

18/4/2026 Sat Carrum Masters Regatta hosted by Carrum at NWSC Carrum.

MM4+ S.O'Connor-Smith [HAWTH], C.Tulloch [HAWTH], D.Holman [CARM], S.Gilbert [CARM], Cox: A.Everett [CARM] 2nd

MM4X+ M.Campbell, J.Stewart, S.Watts, M.Oliver, Cox: R.Oliver 3rd

XM4X+ L.Judge, E.Williamson, J.Lake, P.Wilson, Cox: G.Besley 2nd
🥇 J.Wheelahan, R.Blackwell, B.Olayos, L.Olayos, Cox: N.Kinsman 1st

🥇 MM4- S.O'Connor-Smith [HAWTH], C.Tulloch [HAWTH], D.Holman [CARM], S.Gilbert [CARM] 1st

FM4+ F.Graham, N.Kinsman, J.Cotchin, M.Watts, Cox: G.Besley 2nd

XM8+ P.Freeland-Small, R.Blackwell, B.Olayos, S.Watts, L.Judge, E.Williamson, A.Shub, J.Wheelahan, Cox: G.Besley 4th

FM4- L.Olayos, D.Horne, R.Blake, R.Oliver 3rd

FM4X+ M.Watts, N.Kinsman, F.Graham, V.Hamilton, Cox: G.Besley 2nd

MM1X M.Oliver 3rd

XM4X- J.Lake, P.Wilson, L.Judge, E.Williamson Final 2nd

🥇 FM4X- F.Graham, R.Oliver, J.Cotchin, M.Watts 1st

Nagambie/Hawthorn W.Cotter [NRC], J.Wheelahan [HAWTH], H.Bradbury [NRC], S.Andrews [NRC] 2nd

MM2X S.Watts, R.Blackwell 4th
P.Freeland-Small, B.Olayos 3rd
🥇 M.Oliver, J.Stewart 1st

FM8+ R.Oliver, J.Cotchin, M.Watts, F.Graham, D.Horne, N.Kinsman, V.Hamilton, R.Blake, Cox: D.Spring 4th

FM4X+ L.Olayos, J.Wheelahan, A.Shub, L.Judge, Cox: G.Besley 2nd

MM4+ M.Campbell, J.Lake, R.Blackwell, P.Wilson, Cox: C.Ashley 3rd
🥇 S.Watts, B.Olayos, P.Freeland-Small, J.Stewart, Cox: S.Lincoln 1st

XM2X M.Oliver, R.Oliver 2nd

Future Regattas

REGATTAS
Please find the regattas for May:

University of Melbourne - Intercollegiate Regatta, hosted by Rowing Victoria on the Yarra River
27/5/2026 Wed-Sat 2026 Australian Masters Rowing Championships hosted by Rowing WA to be held at Champion Lakes.

Please notify Shane and Bill for selection and entry into the regattas as soon as possible!

ROWING DEVELOPMENT

Rowing Development is on this Tuesday and Thursday, (5:45pm arrival for 6pm on the water) 6pm - 7:30pm. This will return at the ending of Daylight Savings.

Make sure you book in prior to 3:30pm on the same day!

Saturday is at 2pm (where there are no regattas) and Sunday is at 9am. Make sure you book these at least the night before.

Progress Squad should continue to open up as well with more opportunities for sessions on Sunday once the exam period for the coaches is over.

All progress Squad and RD can be booked via https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/20b74586/?categories[]=Rowing%20Training.

Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Tristan

Club Captain.

HRC Constitution

Please note that the the revised HRC constitution that was presented at the 2025 AGM is now available on the club’s website under ‘Membership Policies’.

Rowing Kit

A final reminder to members interested in purchasing Canterbury Club Gear. A minimum order will be lodged in the near future. The club will then invoice each person who has confirmed and the item will be available for pickup at HRC. There is some great winter gear available such as hoodies, spray jackets and puffers. Please email Tristan if you have any questions.

Pontoon Sports is supplying HOTY merchandise this year. Refer to the website for details https://pontoonsports.com/collections/head-of-the-yarra-2025?srsltid=AfmBOop9_GJDvbOCnISWvJSoD8A80j5UT9TC5gvC17-U60XfzqZL20Sg

Reporting Boat Damage

General Reminders:

Boat damage reporting. Please notify Tristan ASAP or you could be liable for the full damage of the boat. captain@hawthornrowingclub.com.

Please use the changerooms for storing your personal items. Not the downstairs areas.

BOOK BOOK BOOK. Do not use without booking boats. If you don’t have permission, don’t use it.

Please let the Captain know beforehand if you are making a repair or if you have made one.
Tristan

Spotlight on a Member!

Rower and artist Linda Judge

Hmmm, Jenny asked me to write something about my art practice so here I go.

After studying painting at VCA in the late 80’s I had the usual trajectory for an artist.

I completed my masters in 2003 and did time at Gertrude Street Studios which was a cavernous but subsidised space above Deans art in Gertrude Street where I met many other like -minded folk.

In 2002 I was awarded a residency in Beijing by Asialink. Taking the three kids to China was a big deal (they were all under five). My partner had taken three months off work to home school the kids but turns out it was a bit harder than he thought. Nevertheless, the time was formative and very special for both of us.

My work has ranged from painting and drawing to my current practice which is almost exclusively three dimensional. I do like painting the odd portrait (smiley face emoji) and was very happy to win the Bayside art prize for a portrait of my Mum. But what really floats my boat at the moment is working with wooden logs and found single use plastics (turns out they’re actually more than single use when reused in sculpture). People often ask if I eat a lot of bread and although I love gluten of all types I collaborate with a charity called breadtags for wheelchairs through which I collect and then purchase the very same breadtags that are used to tighten up the riggers. If I remember I bring down a handful for the club.

The two works below are from this year, the first Toxecology was the winner of the peoples choice award in the MacClelland gallery small sculpture award that has just finished.

The second is a very recent work made from a log that some of you might have hit whilst rowing. I liked the shape and carried it home, on my bike which was tricky. I’ve also included a landscape of the Yarra upstream from the club and painted on a bed of plastics, this one was acquired by the State library. If any of you have excess breadtags you can drop them at the club for me likewise if anyone has interesting logs in their woodpile I would love to see them. Thanks for listening.

Lindy (Linda) Judge

Artist.

Roaming Rower - James Lyon

In the 1870s a series of engineering projects straightened the Danube River as it passed the booming city of Wien. The new channelling of the actual Danube, the Donau, improved flood control, created new suburbs on a former swampland, and enabled big barges to pass through. A much improved side canal, the Donaukanal, gave boats better access into the city centre. And cutting off a meandering bend created a long curved, oxbow lake called the Alte Donau, the Old Danube. Basically, it's a billabong. The 1873 Vienna World Fair took place on reclaimed swamp land along the new Danube, while water sports became popular on the Old Danube. The wider northern end was better for sailing, while rowers preferred the sheltered southern end. Rowing clubs sprouted beside this stretch of calm water over the next decades, at about the same time Hawthorn Rowing Club was established.

The improved Danube Canal in Vienna in the 1870s.

This year, in January, people were ice skating on the Old Danube. In March, it was still a bit cold for rowing. Thinking I might return in warmer months, I checked out half a dozen rowing clubs along a 3km stretch of the Old Danube. A bike and pedestrian path follows the waterfront, with a few cafes and bars, and a small park with a rowing theme at the north end. The park had a heritage boat house, a billboard listing the local rowing clubs, murals featuring local rowing champions, and some diabolical rowing exercise machines.

Let's not buy one of these for Hawthorn!

Just south of the park is Ruderverein Ellida, the Ellida Rowing Club, founded in 1898. (Rudern = rowing). The club looked old-school, charming, almost familiar.

So I checked their website https://www.ellida.at/

The website had all the familiar rowing club stuff - contact info, office bearers, club news, upcoming events, and a fun photo gallery where winners are grinners.

Have a look at their boat booking page: https://teamup.com/ksub6jhx4zrboy8i52

Three things I noticed that were different from Hawthorn.

1 Their website is in German. (and my browser's "translate to English" option is a bit weird.)

2 They compete in some very scenic locations, like lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

But the weather isn't always nice. Their facebook page reveals boat loading in miserable rain and mist.

Especially interesting is their participation in the Vogalonga, a 30 km course through the canals of Venice, for rowers, gondolieras, kayakers and canoeists.

3 They maintain and use a number of old wooden boats, for training and for touring. Club social activities include day-long trips on rivers and lakes, with a big lunch stop at a Gaststätte (traditional tavern).

Their pitch for new members lost something in translation:

"We are a master rowing club that is on rowing with adults specialized. We are a large community of 20 to 90 years old and are looking forward to going to the water together. Depending on the ambitions, you can only run "health rowing", but of course we are happy about all those who row together with our "racing team" victories for the Ellida. If you also want to become a member of us, quickly register for the rude course and get started."

Still sounds good to me - before my next visit to Vienna, I'll be emailing the Schriftführer about "health rowing" and sending some euros to the Kassier.