Our History
Our History
The club was established in 2019 as an initiative of Tracy Hillman, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for what has become a strong and enduring paddling community. Tracy was instrumental in every aspect of the club’s formation—from sourcing and acquiring the first canoes, to organising repairs and maintenance, and coordinating access to the clubhouse in collaboration with the junior sailors. A small but committed group of financial contributors also played an important role in helping bring the club to life during these early stages.
Tracy has over 20 years of experience in dragon boating, including representing NSW and Australia as an Aurora. This strong background in team paddling significantly influenced the club’s early development, shaping its approach to teamwork, discipline, and on-water cohesion.
Membership growth was a key focus in the beginning, although attracting new paddlers proved challenging at times. Much of the club’s early energy was directed toward fundraising efforts to support the purchase of equipment, particularly additional canoes. For many members, this was also an introduction to a different style of paddling, distinct from other disciplines. However, the early membership group largely consisted of dragon boaters, bringing with them a shared understanding of crew dynamics, rhythm, and collective effort. This common background played a crucial role in establishing the club’s early paddling style and strong team culture.
One of the earliest milestones in the club’s history came only months after its formation when Jervis Bay Outrigger Canoe Club attended its first regatta, the Sand and Sea Festival, held at Huskisson Beach on the weekend of 24 October 2019. For a newly established club with limited resources and a small membership base, simply participating was a significant achievement. The event provided members with their first opportunity to represent the club, experience the wider outrigger paddling community, and begin building the relationships that would help shape the club's future. Many of the paddlers who attended remain proud of being part of this foundational chapter in the club's story.
The club's first regatta crew reflected the pioneering spirit of those early days. Like many clubs, JBOCC's beginnings were built on enthusiasm, determination and a willingness to learn together. The experience of competing and connecting with other paddlers reinforced the sense that the club was part of something much larger than itself and helped inspire future growth and participation.
In those formative days, resources were limited. With only one canoe available, sessions required creativity and cooperation. When more than six paddlers attended, some would walk along the shoreline toward Red Rock to rotate in and out of the canoe. This system worked remarkably well, reflecting a spirit of generosity and inclusiveness—everyone was willing to share water time and support one another’s development.
From the outset, a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship became a defining feature of the club. These early bonds created a welcoming and supportive environment that continues to underpin the club today. One enduring tradition is the social gathering after the regular Sunday paddle, where members come together to connect, share stories, and exchange knowledge and experiences. This ritual has become an important part of the club’s identity.