Griffins Committee

President

"Keep paddling they said, stay in time, you'll get the hang of it. What seemed very daunting at the time soon became a passion, and 6 years on, I'm both physically and mentally stronger and have memories and friends to last a lifetime.  

Nothing beats the adrenaline of racing, it doesn't matter your age, that fighting spirit surfaces as soon as you hear the starter call "Paddlers are you ready".

Dragon boating to me is not just a sport but a lifestyle."

Narelle Shields

Vice President

"I started Dragon Boating in 2019 with my daughter. I was searching for a new sport to try. It didn’t take long for me to realise that I had found not only an amazing sport but also an equally amazing club.

Joining the Canberra Griffins was a no-brainer — it was the place where I felt welcome, encouraged, and supported right from the start. I love being able to pass that feeling on by welcoming new paddlers and sharing what I love about Dragon Boating with them.

Travelling for regattas is a highlight for me. They’re always packed with fun & laughs with the Griffins. But I also love to race hard and there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of race day!"

Amanda Wright

Secretary

"I came to dragon boating for fitness, but found a whole lot more.  The Griffins are a diverse family who welcomed me from day one.  No matter your age or ability I found there is always a place on the boat for everyone.

I love the friendships, being challenged at each training session, working and improving as a team.  Highlights include the thrill of regattas, travelling as a team, and watching the changing seasons from the water."

Caroline Oshyer

Treasurer

"I've been with the Canberra Griffins since 2012 having been introduced into the sport through participation in a corporate regatta.

Dragon boating for me is a very cathartic form of exercise, you can't think about work and paddle at the same time and I often feel physically exhausted but mentally refreshed after a training session.

Dragon boating delivers fitness, fun and a degree of fanaticism.  

The Griffins have always been a very friendly, welcoming and accommodating club. It's my second family."

Martin Squire

Head Coach

"After first trying Dragon Boating as a kid in Geraldton, W.A., I returned to the sport in Melbourne, in 2021 after switching from hockey—realising that summer sports were where it’s at—and I haven’t looked back since. 

Dragon Boating has given me the chance to compete at State level for both Victoria and the ACT, represent Australia at the Club Crew World Championships in Italy, and enjoy racing adventures in unique locations such as Taiwan and Kununurra.

I’ve found my Canberra community in the Griffins, where connection and inclusivity come first. From the very start, I felt warmly welcomed and part of the team. I’m now excited to step into a new role, leading the coaching team for the 2025/2026 season!"

Michelle Delfos

Membership & Safety Officer

"I started dragon boating in February 2022. I’d seen it before, many moons ago, and always thought it looked so hard, just paddling on one side. The Griffins appeared to be having a blast in their warm-ups, and that’s how I found my way to this crew of excellent souls. I can’t believe I’ve found a team sport that I totally love. It is hard (and we do change sides!), but it’s also great fun, and everyone has a role to play on the boat. 

I’m glad to be helping out on the committee to support our club and our sport. It’s a joy to welcome new paddlers to the dragon boating community."

Chris Huber

Uniform and Equipment Officer

"I loved being on the water, but it was boring when there was only one person in the boat – I needed a team. I had heard the drumming and so thought I would try Dragon Boating, I was instantly addicted, that was four years ago.

I convinced some colleagues to come and try with me and rumours were that the Griffins were a fun team so we chose them and have not looked back.  Competitive fun, friendly and an encouraging environment is what we found in the sport and club. Also a great way to get fit.

Getting in the boat after a hard day at work and releasing that built up energy or enjoying the sunrise shining off the lake in the early morning or a lazy Sunday morning paddle, all while getting to know an amazing group of people from every walk of life – that is how to live and enjoy life!"

Leanne Gollasch

Social Media Officer

Nikhil Clementi

Young paddler rep

"Over the past year, I have fully immersed myself in the exhilarating world of dragon boating. With each paddle stroke (Deeper), dragon boating is not just about exercise; it's also about working together as a team with my fellow Griffs to succeed on the water. I've learned the importance of discipline, perseverance, and friendship on this journey, and I'm excited for more years of fun and challenges in this sport. The Canberra Griffin team welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a valued member from day one."

Kate Gillard