SPRC HISTORY

A Legacy of Excellence and Community Spirit

Founded with a passion for rowing and a strong sense of community, Surfers Paradise Rowing Club (SPRC) has been a cornerstone of the Gold Coast rowing scene for decades. Since its formation, SPRC has nurtured generations of rowers, from beginners to Olympians, providing a welcoming environment where athletes of all levels can thrive.

The club was officially opened at its current Chevron Island site in 1996, with the opening ceremony led by club patron Mick Veivers MLA. The site itself was secured thanks in part to legendary developer and avid rower Keith Williams, best known for his visionary work on Hamilton Island and Sea World, who was also a proud club member. The SPRC facilitywas named the John (Jock) Wright Boat Shed ANDofficially dedicated on 14 February 1998.

The Gold Coast’s connection to rowing runs deep. The area has a rich and storied rowing heritage, reflected in Surfers Paradise street names that honour legendary scullers such as Laycock, Hanlan, Clifford, Teemer, and Edward Trickett became Australia’s first world champion in any sport, who won the World Sculling Championship in 1876.

Rowing on the Nerang River dates back to 1910, when The Southport School (TSS) hosted its first regattas. SPRC is proud to continue this tradition, supporting school programs at TSS, St Hilda’s, and Trinity Lutheran College, as well as individual club and university crews.

SPRC’s original clubhouse near the Isle of Capri bridge was tragically lost during the devastating Boxing Day floods of 1974. In the years that followed, the club operated from several temporary locations, with the Anglers Arms in Queen street, Southport serving as its unofficial headquarters in the early 1990s. During this time, the club was known by a number of names, including the Eagles Surfers Paradise Rowing Club, reflecting its close relationship with the Eagles Rugby Club. The Sea Eagle crest remains a proud feature of the SPRC logo today, symbolising resilience, pride, and an enduring community spirit.

SPRC achieved a major milestone in 2012, winning its first Rowing Queensland Premiership, a testament to years of hard work and passionate coaching. The club has since produced several Australian representatives and a number ofNational and International medallists.

Today, SPRC stands as a proud home to current and future champions. Many of our athletes have gone on to represent Queensland and Australia, with several rowing for top US collegiate programs including Princeton, Washington, Brown, Cal, Rutgers, Clemson, UMass, and High Point. Their journeys, from humble beginnings on the Nerang River to global competition, are proof that with dedication, consistency, and community support, anything is possible.

From recreational rowers to international representatives, SPRC continues to embody the values of inclusivity, teamwork, perseverance, and promote the lifelong joy of rowing.

Club Patron:

We are excited to welcome to Surfers Paradise Rowing Club our new club patron John-Paul Langbroek MP, ironically his first official function was the Australian Rower of the year awards representing the Premier.

• State Member For Surfers Paradise

• Minister For Education And The Arts