The Gold Coast Master Rowers (GCMR) have a rich history marked by resilience, camaraderie, and success. This story begins in 1994 with a small group of passionate rowers and spans decades of triumphs and challenges, showcasing the evolution of a club that has become a beacon for rowers on the Gold Coast.

 

 

In 1994, a team of rowers, including Ray Clitheroe, Peter Faint, Gordon Cameron, and Bill Taylor, competed at the World Masters Games at Wivenhoe Dam, representing Tweed Heads Rowing Club. Their early efforts set the stage for future successes. However, by 1995, the collapse of the Tweed Heads Rowing & Aquatic Club left Ray Clitheroe without a rowing home.

 

The following years saw the formation of a new team. Bill Taylor and Paul Christensen rowed as a pair, while Chris Roberts and John Sheehy joined, bringing their experience and enthusiasm. Training from Bill's house on Lake Herron, Burleigh Waters, the crew competed under the Lismore Rowing Club banner, achieving significant victories at regattas across Northern Rivers and Queensland. Their dedication paid off at the 1997 World Masters Regatta in Adelaide, where they secured multiple medals.

 

 

By 1999, the Somerset Boat Club was formed, enabling the group of rowers who had been training and competing from Bill's house—affectionately known as the Cassowary Boat Club—to join and lift the profile of Somerset Rowing.  The team then relocated to Bond University, further cementing their presence in the rowing community.

 

The early 2000s were marked by consistent participation and success at regattas, including the NRRA, RQ, Queensland, and NSW Masters. In 2004, the club decided to formalise its identity, adopting the name Gold Coast Master Rowers (GCMR). The term "Master" signified their skill level rather than age, emphasising their competitive prowess. The club's objective was to provide senior rowers with access to high-quality boats, as established clubs often prioritised younger rowers.

 

 

The mid-2000s saw the GCMR secure significant grants to purchase new equipment, enhancing their competitive edge. With these resources, the club continued to dominate at regional and national regattas. Notable achievements included gold medals at the Australian Masters and impressive performances at the Pan Pacific Masters Games.

 

In 2008, a gaming fund grant allowed the club to acquire essential rowing and sculling blades. The following year, GCMR members proudly competed in GCMR colours at international events, further establishing their reputation.

 

 

The 2010s brought more accolades and growth for GCMR. In 2012, another substantial grant enabled the purchase of a coach boat and a new trailer, ensuring the club's operations ran smoothly. Long-time member George Petelin set a world indoor record in 2020, exemplifying the club's enduring spirit and commitment to excellence.

 

 

 

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, GCMR continued to thrive. In 2022, a grant facilitated the replacement of older quads, ensuring the club remained competitive and well-equipped. The delivery of new boats in early 2023 marked the latest chapter in GCMR's ongoing journey.

 

 

 

The story of the Gold Coast Master Rowers is one of passion, resilience, and community. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a competitive force in the rowing world, GCMR has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for master rowers (over the age of 27). The club's dedication to securing quality equipment, mentoring new rowers, and achieving excellence in competition reflects the spirit of its members.

 

As GCMR continues to evolve, its legacy of skill, teamwork, and perseverance will undoubtedly inspire future generations of rowers. The journey of the Gold Coast Master Rowers is far from over, with many more chapters of success and camaraderie yet to be written.