Paddle strength

ON THE cusp of its 20-year anniversary, one of Geelong’s most unique rowing boats shows no signs of slowing down even though many of its crew are either enduring, or are in remission from breast cancer.

The Dragons Abreast Geelong ‘Juggernauts’ as they are known, are a group of mainly women who launch Dragon boat ‘Ruby’ into the river each Saturday for an hour of training, fitness and fun for those who’ve been through one of the most difficult periods in their – or a loved ones – lives.

“A really interesting fact is that we never mention breast cancer, we just get on with enjoying life,” Deni Schimana said, a member of 17 years.

Describing herself as the matriarch of the ‘Juggs’, as they are called for short, Ms Schimana said it was no exaggeration to say that the boat with a minimum crew of 11 had helped countless lives.

“It was a life changing opportunity for me to travel the same path of so many other women and to enjoy the camaraderie and friendship of this wonderful group,” she said.

The idea for breast cancer survivors dragon boating originated in Canada in 1996, for a test that successfully busted the myth that repetitive upper-body exercise in women treated for breast cancer encourages lymphedema, and from their chapters have set up around the world.

Mostly ranging in ages between 40-70, the Juggs have competed in regattas through numerous cities and towns along Australia’s east coast and members are currently preparing for a September 18 regatta in Ballarat.

So far there’s been limited success in attracting members of the opposite sex to the boat, overtures to some men’s cancer groups have “gone down like a lead balloon” Ms Schimana said, but it’s something the group is keen to change.

This is one of the reasons that a scheduled visit in October, during breast cancer awareness month, from Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy will be so welcome.

That, and members are proud to spread the word about the work they do.

“Everybody is going through something, so we check in on people if they’re not there…it’s not a doom and gloom club,” relative newcomer Tina McLean said, who joined 18-months ago despite being terrified of water.

“I don’t swim and have a fear of the water… now I don’t even think of the fear!”