Para Rowing at SPRC

At Surfers Paradise Rowing Club, we believe rowing should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we’re committed to building a more inclusive future through the development of a dedicated Para Rowing program right here on the Gold Coast.

The region is home to Australia’s most decorated Para-rower, four-time Paralympian Erik Horrie, who resides in Southport. Despite his remarkable achievements, Erik is currently forced to train in Brisbane due to the lack of accessible rowing facilities on the Gold Coast. His journey and ongoing advocacy have highlighted the urgent need for change.

We’re proud to be taking bold steps to lead that change.

SPRC is developing a comprehensive plan to support the next generation of Para athletes, inspired by stories like Erik’s. His legacy is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity—and when accessibility is treated as a priority, not an afterthought.

Among this emerging generation is SPRC athlete Sara Tait, who represented Australia at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in triathlon and now shares Erik’s dream of Paralympic rowing success. After claiming gold at the 2025 Australian Rowing Championships in Tasmania, Sara is firmly on the path to LA 2028.

Together, athletes like Erik and Sara are shaping a more inclusive rowing community—one where determination, access, and support go hand in hand. With the support of key stakeholders including local council, state and federal governments, sponsors, Rowing Queensland, and Rowing Australia, we believe we can turn this vision into reality.

Building a Future for Para Rowing on the Gold Coast

At SPRC, our vision is to establish the Gold Coast as the leading training centre in Australia for Para Rowing. To achieve this, we’re working toward:

• Constructing a purpose-built pontoon to provide safe, accessible water entry for all athletes

• Upgrading club facilities and infrastructure to support inclusive access

• Acquiring specialised adaptive rowing equipment

• Appointing a dedicated head coach to lead a high-performance Para program, with a clear pathway to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games

  
  

While current accessibility limitations prevent us from expanding Para Rowing programs immediately, we are actively working to remove those barriers. Our 2026 plan is to offer both recreational and elite pathways, creating opportunities for athletes at every level, from first-time rowers to future Paralympians.

SPRC PONTOON FOR IMPROVED ACCESSABILITY

This initiative is about more than just infrastructure. It’s about building a truly inclusive environment where all athletes feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to pursue their goals, on and off the water.

We’re excited for what lies ahead, and we look forward to welcoming even more members of our community to the sport we love.