Chapter 3  1946-1970 Restart to Still Water

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Chapter 3 Part 2 - 1950-60

1950-51

The Champion Four was held on the Milton Reach, Brisbane on November 4, 1950. There was a very strong westerly wind pushing against an incoming tide and this caused huge waves which swamped the crews as they tried to line up near the Grey Street Bridge for the start of the two mile championship. Eventually the race was rowed after 6 p.m. when the tide changed. Bundaberg jumped out at the start and rowing the long course under the Coronation Drive bank were never headed to win by ten lengths to Commercial and a further half length to Toowong followed by BGSOBRC, TH&CRC and GPSOBRC. The winning Bundaberg crew was - N. Christie (B) I. Lloyd-Jones (2) N. Hazzard (3) C. Zunker (S) J. Beyer (Cox) and R. Clemence (Coach). The No.3 man, Noel Hazzard, had gone from novice oarsman to champion oarsman in a few months and was a real powerhouse in the four. He subsequently achieved further fame as a centre in the Queensland and Australian Rugby League teams.

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed on the Milton Reach, Brisbane on March 10, 1951. While the race was completed with Bundaberg No.I crew defeating the Bundaberg No.2 crew by a canvas, the umpire Rev. Mervyn Henderson declared the event a "No Race" because of a clash of oars between Bundaberg No. 2 crew and the Brisbane Ladies. The race was re-rowed on the Sunday morning and the Bundaberg No. 1 crew led all the way to win by a length to Brisbane with Bundaberg No. 2 third. The winning Bundaberg Ladies were Misses A. Jarvis (B) H. Parry (2) D. Christsen (3) B. Lister (S) and M. Shaw (Cox). 

The Champion Eights regatta was rowed at Rockhampton on March 24, 1951. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles S. Rogers of Commercial R.C. won easily from I. Frisch of Leichhardt R.C. with R. Proctor of GPSOB&BRC in third place. 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles the Bundaberg R.C. crew defeated the Bundaberg District crew with Brisbane District (Toowong) in third place. 

The winning Bundaberg crew was - B. Dunn (B) J. Itzstein (2) R. Scott (3) J. Shaw (S) and B. Anderson (Cox). Itzstein, Shaw and cox Anderson were in the winning Under 20 Four in April, 1950.

Four crews were entered in the Champion Eight over 3 miles - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Brisbane District (Composite) and Commercial R.C.. The race was run at a very fast pace, and for the first half mile the four crews were level with Bundaberg gradually edging out. By the end of the first mile rowed around a bend, Bundaberg moved out to a length lead and, in so doing, edged over into Commercial's water, causing their coxswain to protest. Brisbane then began to move up and took the lead but Bundaberg kept with the pace until the last half mile. With 100 yards to go the Bundaberg bowman crabbed and had to be pulled from the water by their coxswain. Brisbane won easily from Commercial and Rockhampton with Bundaberg fourth. 

The winning Brisbane District crew was - R.P. Mahony (B-TRC) R.F. James (2-BGSOB) D.H. McClymont (3-GPSOB) A.T. Lawton (4-BGSOB) J.M. Dowrie (5-UQBC) T. Wardrobe (6-GPSOB) N.F. Holland (7-TRC) J. Nunan (S-TRC) D. Bray (Cox) and E.P. Evers (Coach).

The All Schools' Four-oar Championship was rowed on April 21, 1951, over 1 mile on Milton Reach. In the First Four for the Head of the River, Brisbane Boys' College won by a half length to The Southport School, followed by Brisbane State High School and Brisbane Grammar School. Church of England Grammar School who had led until shortly before the finish, when one of their crew crabbed, did not finish. The winning crew was:- W. Thomson (B) J.W. Cameron (2) G.M. Byth (3) L. Stubbings (S) and D. McLeod (Cox).

The Second Four was won by B.B.C. from B.S.H.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Third Four was won by B.B.C. from B.B.C. and T.S.S.. 

The Old Boys race was won by B.S.H.S from B.B.C. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Upper Yarra River, Melbourne on April 28, 1951. New South Wales led over most of the course to win by 2 1/2 lengths to Victoria with Queensland a further 1 1/2 lengths behind in third place. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses A. Jarvis (B) H. Parry (2) D. Christsen (3) B. Lister (S) M. Shaw (Cox) and Mr.N. Cullen (Coach).

The Interstate Championships were rowed on the Hamilton Reach, Brisbane on May 5, 1951. The Interstate Champion Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup was rowed in very rough conditions making for a slow time. Merv Wood of New South Wales defeated R. Rawlings of Victoria by eight lengths with S. Rogers of Queensland more than one hundred yards behind in third place. At one stage Woods' scull was lifted high by a big wave and turned broadside to the course. From then on Woods rowed at little more than half pressure. 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over three miles for the King's Cup New South Wales was a little slow to move at the start and was in third place behind Tasmania and South Australia after 200 yards. Shortly after this New South Wales took the lead and at half way were well clear and seemed set for a big win, but in the rough water Victoria displayed better oarsmanship and gained slowly to the end. New South Wales held on to win by a length to Victoria, 1 1/2 lengths to Western Australia, then Tasmania, South Australia and Queensland. Much had been expected of the big Queensland crew but they left their form on the training track and failed, finishing fifteen lengths behind New South Wales. 

The 1951 King's Cup regatta was both a social and a financial success, although no success was achieved on the water. 

A coaching school, the first of its kind organised by any State, was conducted at the National Fitness Camp at Tallebudgera. The chief instructor was W.G. Thomas of New South Wales, coach of the winning King's Cup crew and also coach of the winning Empire Games eight in New Zealand in 1950. The school was a great success and the hoped-for result would be the achievement of a uniform rowing style throughout Queensland. 

The annual conference was held in Rockhampton and once again saw keen debate on the issues raised. 

Bundaberg R.C. won the Premiership for the fifth time in succession in the 1950/51 season with 96 points to 59 points for Toowong. 

Mr. J.J. Delahunty, who had been Chairman for the past fifteen years, advised that he would not be standing for office again and in his closing address he gave thanks for the very good honorary secretaries he had to help him in Bob Gregory, Bill Dowd and Wilf Mole and throughout this long period only one treasurer, Lou Poulgrain. He thanked all members of the Council for their loyal co-operation and particularly the President, Dan Joyce, for his advice and support on all occasions. The Council in turn responded with a heartfelt thank you for Mr. Delahunty's service over the years. 

With the resignation of J.J. Delahunty as Chairman, Eric Evers was elected to fill this vacancy, Bob Longmore continued as Honorary Secretary and Graham Savage was elected Honorary Treasurer. 

Mr. E.E. McCaskie must have been elected an Honorary Life Member at this meeting. 

1951-52

The Jubilee Regatta, to celebrate 50 years of Australian Federation, was held on Milton Reach, Brisbane, on October 6, 1951, and was very well supported by oarsmen from Rockhampton to Lismore. Thirteen crews started in each of the Novice and Trial Fours over half a mile from Davies Park to Toowong Rowing shed. Country crews had a field day winning all but one race. In the challenge eight Leichhardt R.C. beat Lismore by two feet. In the open four Tweed Heads beat Commercial and Toowong and in the maiden four Lismore defeated Commercial with another Lismore crew in third place. 

The Champion Fours regatta was held in Bundaberg on October 13, 1951. Six crews faced the starter in the Champion Four over two miles in very rough conditions with a strong wind rolling near-breakers down the course. The race was delayed for an hour and the course shifted a half mile upstream. The crews were Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Bundaberg R.C., Maryborough District, Wide Bay R.C., Brisbane District (Tweed Heads) and Commercial R.C .. Brisbane built up a three length lead in the first mile of the race where conditions were the roughest. With half a mile to go Brisbane sprinted and came home eight lengths clear of Bundaberg R.C., then Rockhampton District, Wide Bay R.C., Bundaberg District and Commercial R.C.. Maryborough District did not complete the course. 

The winning Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew was - C. McMillan (B) B. Boyd (2) R. Barrett (3) R. Green (S) and J. Smithers (Cox).

The Champion Four of the Burnett over two miles was rowed in the moonlight with cars situated on the north bank lighting up the finish. Tweed again won this race defeating Bundaberg R.C. and Toowong R.C.. 

The Annual Conference was held in Bundaberg and as usual the debate was quite intense. 

The Champion Eights regatta was rowed in Bundaberg on April 12, 1952. The Ladies' Championship Four over 3/4 mile was deservedly won by the Brisbane Ladies crew by a canvas with half a length separating the two Bundaberg Ladies crews, with D. Christsen's four heading off the crew stroked by B. Lister. 

The winning Brisbane Ladies were Misses C. Sexton (B) P. Sexton (2) J. Webb (3) M. Reid (S) Mr. S. Barker (Cox) and Mr. R.G. Longmore (Coach). 

The Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles saw six crews entered - Rockhampton District, Leichhardt R.C., Bundaberg District, Bundaberg R.C., Wide Bay R.C. and Brisbane District (UQBC). Brisbane took the early lead and for the first mile were challenged by Bundaberg District, but in the final quarter mile Leichhardt rowed through to take second place. Brisbane won by two lengths to Leichhardt with a half length to Bundaberg District, followed by Bundaberg R.C., Wide Bay R.C. and Rockhampton District. The winning Brisbane District (UQBC) crew was - R. Douglass (B) J. Harte (2) R. Andrew (3) J. Bythe (S) and S. Barker (Cox).

In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles there were only two starters - S. Rogers of Commercial R.C. and M. King of Bundaberg R.C.. For the first half mile the two were close together but then Rogers went out to a four length lead about half a mile from the finish. Rogers then ran foul of a launch moored right on the edge of the course and he lost about three lengths in recovering himself. King managed to take the lead but with a tremendous sprint Rogers won the race by half a length.

In the Champion Eight over three miles there were three starters - Bundaberg District, Brisbane District (Composite) and University of Queensland Boat Club. From an even start Varsity just had its bow in front and maintained this position throughout the race with Brisbane and Bundaberg forcing each other to the limit. With half a mile to go Varsity lifted their rating but only managed to get a half length advantage over Brisbane at the finish with Bundaberg 3/4 length behind. 

The winning University crew was: B. Jones (B) F. Hepple (2) R. Hitchcock (3) R. McDonald (4) A. Battaglene (5) C.J. Brett (6) K. Taylor (7) D. Kronfeld (S) and A.D. Brown (Cox and Coach). 

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on April 19, 1952, over 1 mile on the Milton Reach. This was the first time the newspapers had changed from their previous reference to the All Schools' event. In the First Four for the Head of the River, Brisbane Boys' College won by 3/4 length to The Southport School and Church of England Grammar School. 

The winning crew was:- L. Stubbings (B) J.W. Cameron (2) J. Shannon (3) D. Cameron (S) R. Bray (Cox) and J.R. Cameron (Coach). 

The Second Four was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and T.S.S.. 

The Third Four was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S and B.B.C.. 

The Old Boys Four over 3/4 mile was won by B.B.C. from B.G.S.. 

Brisbane State High School was unable to row in this regatta because of anti-polio restrictions, and then dropped out of the competition because finances were not available to update their boats to a competitive standard. They rejoined the G.P.S. Association in 1957, rowing out of Commercial R.C.. 

The Interstate Championships were held on the Nepean River at Penrith on May 10, 1952. In the Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup, Merv Wood of New South Wales won his seventh successive Australian Sculls title by 250 yards to S. Rogers of Queensland and A. Jones of Tasmania third a further 300 yards back. 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over three miles for the King's Cup, Victoria caused a great surprise by defeating New South Wales by four lengths, followed by Tasmania, Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia. The New South Wales crew had been selected in 1951 as the Australian crew to represent at the Helsinki Olympics and the majority of their training had been over the 2000 metres distance. The loss to Victoria while causing a great debate did not alter the selection already made. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Town Reach, Brisbane on May 17, 1952. New South Wales scored a run-away win to lead all the way and win by six lengths to Queensland with Victoria third a short distance behind. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses C. Sexton (B) P. Sexton (2) J. Webb (3) M. Reid (S) and Mr. S. Barker (Cox). 

Bundaberg RC won the Premiership for the sixth successive season with 108 points to University on 84 points for 1951/52. Bundaberg won without being successful in any of the four major championships, but attended all River Championships and scored points by competing in 16 of the 1 7 Championship races contested. The following table of Queensland Championships and various winners gives a graphic indication of the way in which this feat was accomplished. 

At the A.A.R.C. annual meeting on May 8, 1952, the Council approved Queensland's suggestion that two new events be added to the King's Cup regatta programme, namely Champion Pair with Cox and Champion Double Sculls. The distances were to be finalised later in the year. The rationale for this addition was forward planning for participation in the 1956 Olympic Games which appeared certain to be held in Australia. 

Kevin Webb of New South Wales submitted a proposal to hold a National Regatta over the Olympic distance at Lake Wendouree annually. This proposal was referred back to all States for comment. 

Australia sent a single sculler, eight, double sculls and a pair to the Olympic Games held in Helsinki, Finland, from July 19 to August 3, 1952. Mervyn Wood in the Men’s Single Sculls and in his early thirties took silver in his race and the eight which was basically the 1951 New South Wales King's Cup eight came third behind U.S.A. and the U.S.S.R.- only one and a quarter lengths behind the winners. 

The office bearers remained unchanged at the 1952 A.G.M.. 

1952-53

The Champion Fours regatta was held in Maryborough on October 25, 1952. Four crews entered the Championship Four over two miles - Bundaberg (J. Shaw), Bundaberg (L. Trevor), Maryborough District and Tweed Heads. The race was between Tweed and Shaw's Bundaberg crew from the beginning. Shaw led out from the start but Tweed relentlessly worked their way past Bundaberg to establish a four length lead at the mile. Shaw fought back to reduce the leeway to two lengths but Tweed pushed away in the last 200 yards to win by 2 1/2 lengths to Shaw's Bundaberg crew, and in the second division of the race Trevor's Bundaberg crew was third and Maryborough District fourth. 

The winning Tweed Heads crew was - K. Goswell (B) C. McMillan (2) R. Barrett (3) W. Ahrens (S) and M. Thornton (Cox). 

The Ladies' Championship Four was rowed over 3/4 mile on the Town Reach, Brisbane on March 21, 1953. The Brisbane Ladies R.C. crew led all the way and after fighting off several challenges from Tweed won by a length with Bundaberg third. 

The winning Brisbane Ladies were Misses C. Sexton (B) P. Sexton (2) J. Webb (3) M. Reid (S) and Mr. R.G. Longmore (Cox and Coach). 

The Champion Eights regatta was held on the Hamilton Reach, Brisbane on April 4, 1953. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles K. Goswell of Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. was not troubled to defeat I. Frisch of Leichhardt R.C. with E. Turton of Wide Bay R.C. in third place. 

The Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles was won by Toowong R.C. who defeated Commercial R.C. by 1 1/2 lengths with Brisbane District (Tweed Heads) in third place. 

The winning Toowong crew was - O. Oakley (B) K. Cashman (2) G. Hussie (3) P. Griffiths (S) A. Miller (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

The Champion Lightweight Four over two miles had been re-introduced in this season but unfortunately it was won on a row-over by Toowong. 

The winning Toowong crew was - K. Molle (B) K. O'Dwyer (2) R. Trueman (3) G. Newton (S) T. Jack (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

The Champion Eight over three miles was contested by five crews - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Brisbane District (Toowong), Commercial R.C. and University of Queensland Boat Club. From an even start University gradually built up a length lead after half a mile, and six lengths by half way. With half a mile to go the University No.6 man crabbed and was ejected from the boat. One of the crew pulled his blade inboard and the crew lifted their rating to hold off Brisbane's desperate effort, to win by four lengths with a further 1 1/4 lengths to Commercial in third place, followed by Rockhampton District and Bundaberg District. Rockhampton and Bundaberg had been troubled by the different water conditions and had trailed the three Brisbane based crews by many lengths throughout the race. 

The winning University crew was - R. Withers (B) D. Morwood (2) C. Wilson (3) B. Jones (4) J. Kerr (5) D. Gutteridge (6) A. Battaglene (7) D. Kronfeld (S) D. Bray (Cox) and A. Lawton (Coach).

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on April 18, 1953, over 1 mile on Milton Reach. In the First Four for the Head of the River, The Southport School won by one length to Church of England Grammar School and Brisbane Boys' College. This was The Southport School's first win since 1933. 

The winning crew was:- P.W. Walker (B) A.C. Ussher (2) A.J. Stephenson (3) J.C. King (S) and J.A. Kingston (Cox). 

The Second Four resulted in a dead-heat between B.B.C. and C.E.G.S., with T.S.S. third. 

The Third Four over 3/4 mile was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and T.S.S.. 

The Fourth Four over 3/4 mile was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and T.S.S.. 

The Old Boys Four over 3/4 mile was won by C.E.G.S from B.B.C. and B.G.S .. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on Iron Cove, Sydney on April 18, 1953. At the half mile Victoria was slightly ahead, but New South Wales, rowing longer and more steadily, took the lead shortly afterwards and went on to win by 1 1/2 lengths from Queensland who had finished well to also pass Victoria. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses C. Sexton (B) P. Sexton (2) J. Webb (3) M. Reid (S) and Mr. R.G. Longmore (Cox and Coach). 

The King's Cup Regatta was held in Perth on April 18, 1953, and as usual Queensland was not represented. In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over three miles for the King's Cup Victoria won from New South Wales and Western Australia. P. Evatt of New South Wales won the Interstate Championship Sculls over two and a half miles for the President's Cup from R.L. Rawlings of Victoria and L. Plummer of Tasmania. The Double Sculling Championship of Australia was won by Western Australia on a row-over. The Pair-oared Championship of Australia over one and a quarter miles was won by New South Wales from Tasmania and Western Australia who were the only entrants. 

It was announced that in order to allow forward planning for the 1956 Olympic Games that the winning crew in the King's Cup would represent Australia and the winning coach could make alterations to his crew and have them approved by the A.A.RC. if he thought it necessary. The race would be rowed at Lake Wendouree over one and a quarter miles (2000 metres) in two heats of three on Thursday, repechage on Friday for the four defeated crews. Winners of the heats and winner of the repechage to compete in the final on the Saturday. 

For scullers and other crews (except the eight) a test regatta over three days would be held one or two weeks before the closing of final entries for the Games. Heats on Thursday, repechage on Friday, and finals on Saturday. The winners and their coaches to represent Australia and the coach to alter the crew if he considered it necessary. Composite crews were to be permitted irrespective of whether the clubs were in different States. Coxswains for the Pair Oared Championship of Australia were to be not less than 8 stone. 

For the Empire Games of 1954 the crews and their coaches winning the King's Cup and the President's Cup would represent Australia. If other crews were to go a test race would be held at Lake Wendouree or on the Nepean River. 

Bundaberg RC again won the Premiership, the 1952/53 season win making it seven seasons running. They won with 107 points to 86 points to Toowong. 

The office bearers remained unchanged at the 1953 A.G.M .. 

During 1953, Sigi Tantner, a boat builder from Europe, set up his workshop in Commercial RC and for the first time in many years, Queensland had a man available to do major repairs and build racing shells instead of everything having to come from the Southern States. 

1953-54

The Champion Four of Queensland was rowed in Rockhampton on Sunday, November 8, 1953. There were four crews entered in the 2 mile championship - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Bundaberg R.C. and Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.). After several false starts the four crews got away evenly with Bundaberg R.C. and Brisbane leading out and they had a length on Bundaberg District and Rockhampton District after half a mile. At the mile Brisbane had a canvas on Bundaberg R.C. and with half a mile to go Brisbane had three lengths on Bundaberg R.C. which they maintained to the finish with Bundaberg District third a further three lengths back and Rockhampton tailed off. One surprise in the race was the fine performance of the Bundaberg R.C. crew stroked by J. Shaw in finishing well ahead of the Bundaberg District crew. 

The winning Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.) crew was - C. Malouf (B) J. Pritchard (2) G. Hussie (3) P. Griffiths (S) T. Jack (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship was rowed over 3/4 mile at Boyds Bay Reach on the Tweed River on March 6, 1954. Bundaberg Ladies led until the final 100 yards of the race when they were passed by the Tweed Heads Ladies who won by a canvas with the Brisbane Ladies a long way back in third place. Two members of the winning crew had only been rowing for six weeks. 

The winning Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. Ladies were Misses C. Anderson (B) J. Dorrough (2) J. Green (3) M. Tiemey (S) Mr. J. Smithers (Cox) and Mr. K. Goswell (Coach).

The Champion Eights regatta was held at Maryborough on March 27, 1954. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles the Brisbane District (Tweed Heads) sculler Barry Green won by six lengths to M. King of Bundaberg R.C. and J. Kerr of U.Q.B.C. a further four lengths back, followed by E. Turton of Wide Bay R.C..

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles there were seven starters and efforts to get this field away considerably delayed the programme. When the race got under way the Bundaberg R.C. crew stroked by D. Berry stopped almost immediately and the race was stopped. The umpire considered their protest to be frivolous and disqualified them. In the re-start the Brisbane District (Toowong R.C) crew went to the lead but 50 yards from the finish with a length lead one of the crew collapsed and they stopped rowing. In a photo-finish University won by 1/3 length to Tweed Heads with Bundaberg (B. Black) a length further back.

The winning U.Q.B.C. crew was - B. Bates (B) A. Gardner (2) A.J. Stevenson (3) J. Nutt (S) and J. Kingston (Cox).

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 2 miles the Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.) crew was too classy and won by three lengths to University with Tweed Heads third. 

The winning Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.) crew was - O. Oakley (B) T. Bartlam (2) J. Nunan (3) G. Newton (S) A. Miller (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

In the Champion Eight over 3 miles there were six crews - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Maryborough District, Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.), U.Q.B.C. and Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C.. The race started 1 1/2 hours late because of delays with early races. Brisbane led out from the start and after a quarter-mile had a canvas on University with Tweed a few feet back. At the mile Brisbane had a length on University with Tweed a canvas back. At halfway Brisbane's lead was reduced to a canvas. At the two mile University had a half length on Tweed with a canvas to Brisbane. With half a mile to go University had a length on Tweed with Brisbane half a length further back. In the race for the line Tweed won a terrific battle with University who followed the curve of the bank and allowed Tweed to win by five feet to University with three lengths to Brisbane, then Maryborough, Rockhampton and Bundaberg. 

The winning TH&CRC crew was - R. Anderson (B) Ron Green (2) K. Goswell (3) G. Shambrook (4) M. Maher (5) F. Jaques (6) R. Barrett (7) Ray Green (S) I. Smithers (Cox) and H. Green (Coach).

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Yarra River in Melbourne on April 10, 1954. Queensland got away to a good start and was always a little in front. At the halfway mark Queensland had a two length lead over New South Wales. Queensland kept up the pace and won by over two lengths to New South Wales with Victoria a further length behind. 

The winning Queensland Ladies were Misses C. Anderson (B) J. Dorrough (2) J. Green (3) M. Tiemey (S) Mr. J. Smithers (Cox) and Mr. K. Goswell (Coach). 

The G.P.S Head of the River Regatta was rowed on April 24, 1954, over 1 mile on Milton Reach. In the First Four for the Head of the River, The Southport School won by one and a quarter lengths to Brisbane Grammar School, then Brisbane Boys' College, Church of England Grammar School and Christian Brothers College, Gregory Terrace. This was Terrace's first appearance in G.P.S. rowing since 1928. 

The winning crew was;- P.W. Walker (B) A.C. Ussher (2) J.C. King (3) R.C. Gillham (S) and W.A. Barton (Cox).

The Second Four was won by T.S.S. from C.E.G.S. and B.B.C.. 

The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.B.C. from T.S.S. and C.E.G.S. 

The Fourth Four was won by B.B.C. from T.S.S. and C.E.G.S. and the Fifth Four was won by C.E.G.S. from B.B.C. and B.B.C.. 

The Old Boys Eight over 3/4 mile was won by C.E.G.S from G.T. and B.G.S. who dead-heated for second place. 

The Interstate Championships were held on the Derwent River at Hobart on May 1, 1954. The Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup resulted in a boilover with G. Hubbard of Western Australia winning by fifteen lengths to B. Green of Queensland, a further twelve lengths to the title holder, P. Evatt of New South Wales and B.J. Foster of Tasmania in fourth place. 

In the Pair-oared Championship of Australia over 2000 metres, the strong finishing New South Wales pair took the title by 2 1/2 lengths to Tasmania who were the only other starter. Queensland had entered but did not start. 

In the Double Sculling Championship of Australia over 2000 metres Western Australia won on a row-over.· 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 3 miles for the King's Cup the conditions were very rough. The race was delayed for three quarters of an hour in the hope that the conditions would improve but to no avail. Victoria took the lead after the first quarter-mile followed by Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia. At the half way Victoria was leading by three lengths to New South Wales who, despite desperate efforts, was not making up the leeway and Queensland was third. Queensland took a slight lead over New South Wales to move into second place but New South Wales lengthened and right on the line took second place. Victoria won by 1 1/2 lengths to New South Wales with Queensland third 1/4 length back, then six lengths to Western Australia, a half length to Tasmania and twelve lengths to South Australia. 

The A.A.R.C. decided to send a Sculler, Coxswainless Pair and a Double Sculls to the Empire Games in Vancouver. Lack of finance precluded sending an eight-oar crew. 

During the 1953/54 season the death occurred of E.E. McCaskie, a tower of strength to both rowing and cycling, and an honorary life member of both State Associations. A founding member of rowing in the 1880's and 1890's, he was a quite self effacing person who still had a powerful influence on the sport. Official timekeeper for many years, he was ever present at regattas and always willing to offer a kindly word of encouragement to a young rower. 

The death of A. Burton was also reported in the Commercial R.C. Annual Report. He had been elected an Honorary Life Member of the Q.R.A. in 1930, had been Honorary Secretary in 1896/97, coach of several Queensland crews, acted as a boat race official for many years, and in 1912 had been President of a sub­committee appointed to consider how to improve rowing in Queensland. 

The Annual Conference was held at Maryborough and all matters agreed upon came up for ratification at the 1954 A.G.M.. 

Bundaberg's run of premiership wins came to an end with Toowong winning the 1953/54 Premiership with 86 points to University on 61 points. Like Bundaberg, Toowong won by travelling to all centres, but many districts did not run all their River titles and in the eights there were only the Brisbane River and Queensland titles at Maryborough contested. No River eights titles for the Fitzroy, Burnett or Mary Rivers were provided. 

At the 1954 A.G.M. A. Lewis, L. Trout and N. Cullen were elected as Honorary Life Members. Also on the agenda were proposals to prohibit the use of stimulants of any kind; to row the Queensland Championship Eights approximately 5-6 weeks before the King's Cup to enable the selection and' training of a crew to contest the race; to row all River Championship Fours before the State Fours and similarly for the State Championship Eights, and a motion to reduce the distance of the Lightweight Fours to one and a half miles. 

The office bearers remained unchanged at the 1954 A.G.M.. 

1954-55

In the Empire Games rowed in Vancouver on August 3 & 4, 1954, the Double Sculls of M.S. Riley (B) and M.T. Wood (S) won gold and M.T. Wood backed up three quarters of an hour later to row bow in the Coxed Four with P. Evatt (2), G.W. Williamson (3), D. Anderson (S) and L. Robberds (Cox) to take his second gold. P. Evatt had competed in the Single Sculls and G. Williamson and D. Anderson had competed in the Coxswainless Pair. There were five competitors and a coxswain in the Australian Team and they won seven gold and two bronze medals. This was an outstanding result.

On October 3, 1954, Brisbane rowing clubs travelled to Stanthorpe for an Apple Festival regatta held on the newly opened Storm King Dam. The races were over short distances, and oarsmen were very quick getting into and out of boats, since standing in the icy cold water was not recommended for pleasure. 

During the 1954/55 season disastrous floods caused great losses in the Rockhampton and Maryborough districts and precluded the possibility of these districts conducting their River Eights titles. It also became necessary to transfer the Champion Eight to Bundaberg. 

The Champion Four of Queensland over 2 miles was rowed on the Milton Reach in Brisbane on November 20, 1954. Seven crews contested the championship - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Bundaberg R.C., Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C., Toowong R.C., U.Q.B.C. and Brisbane District (Commercial R.C). Toowong took an early lead but Brisbane moved up steadily to have a length lead at the mile mark. Brisbane moved away in the final mile to win by six lengths to Toowong with a further length to University in third place, then Tweed, the two Bundaberg crews and Rockhampton well back. This was the first win for Commercial in the Championship Fours since 1914 - a forty year drought. 

The winning Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) crew was - R. Baum (B) D. Donnelly (2) J. Kerr (3) D. Kronfeld (S) M. Tracey (Cox) and D. Kronfeld (Coach). 

The Champion Junior Eight (Second Grade) of the Brisbane River over 1 1/4 miles was rowed on the same programme and was also won by Commercial R.C.. 

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed at Bundaberg on March 5, 1955. The Brisbane Ladies, rowing with clockwork precision, won by a length to Tweed Heads and a further two lengths to Bundaberg in third place. 

The winning Brisbane Ladies were Misses V. Ward (B) J. Pearman (2) V. Wright (3) C. Sexton (S) and Mr. R.G. Longmore (Cox and Coach). 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on Milton Reach in Brisbane on April 2, 1955. New South Wales jumped out at the start and gained a slight advantage over Victoria, but rating at 36 the Victorians edged their bow in front. The two crews were never separated by more than half a length and in a desperate final 100 yards New South Wales closed to go across the line in a dead-heat with Victoria and Queensland third, but outclassed. The race was re-rowed on the Sunday morning since both crews were too exhausted to re-row after the customary hour break. In the re-row Victoria sprang the gate on the No.2 oar shortly after the start and lost all chance of making a race of it with New South Wales, who won easily by 1 1/2 lengths to take the title. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses V. Ward (B) J. Pearman (2) V. Wright (3) C. Sexton (S) and Mr. R.G. Longmore (Cox and Coach). 

The Champion Eights regatta was held in Bundaberg on April 9, 1955. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles Barry Green of Tweed Heads representing Brisbane District had a brilliant win by defeating S. Rogers of Commercial R.C. by six lengths with a further seven lengths to K. Goswell of Tweed Heads. This win was made the more meritorious because of Green's light weight (only 10 stone). 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles there were three crews - Bundaberg R.C., Toowong R.C. and Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.). Brisbane and Toowong were on even terms after 3/4 mile but Brisbane cleared out to a three length lead over Toowong with Bundaberg failing to complete the course. The winning Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) crew was - D. Bell (B) W. Miller (2) D .Quinn (3) I. Elcock (S) M. Tracey (Cox) and D. Kronfeld (Coach).

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 2 miles Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.) easily defeated the only other contestant in University by 2 1/2 lengths. 

The winning Brisbane District (Toowong RC.) crew was - B. Smith (B) D.J. Murphy (2) R. Scott (3) G. Newton (S) B. Strachan (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

In the Champion Eight over 3 miles there were four crews - Bundaberg District, Brisbane District (TH&CRC), U.Q.B.C, and Toowong RC.. The four crews were fairly well bunched for the first mile but then Brisbane and Toowong eased out from the others. After the two mile mark Brisbane increased their rating and opened up a two length lead on Toowong, which they then increased to win by three lengths to Toowong, 3 lengths to University and six lengths to Bundaberg. 

The winning Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew was - M. Maher (B) N. Reddacliff (2) B. Dorrough (3) F. Jaques (4) K. Preston (5) A. Douglas (6) R. Barrett (7) R. Green (S) J. Smithers (Cox) and H. Green (Coach).

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on April 16, 1955, on Milton Reach. For the first time, the Championship for the Head of the River was rowed in Eights and over 2000 metres. Brisbane Grammar School won by 3/4 length to The Southport School, then Church of England Grammar School, Brisbane Boys' College and Christian Brothers College, Gregory Terrace. This was the first win by Brisbane Grammar School since 1934. Additionally, Grammar did not own an eight, and practised for a short time in a Commercial eight and then trained in and raced in a University boat. 

The winning crew was:- R.H. Taylor (B) J.C. Walker (2) R.J. Stephenson (3) P.M. Damell (4) R.F. Grimes (5) D.D. Hooper (6) B.D. Mears (7) R.I.M. Cribb (S) R. Cribb (Cox) and N. Hirst (Coach). 

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by C.E.G.S from B.B.C. and T.S.S.. 

The Second Four was won by B.B.C. from T.S.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.B.C from T.S.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Interstate Championships were held on the Port River, Port Adelaide on May 7, 1955. In the Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup, Merv Wood of New South Wales won in convincing style by six lengths to B. Green of Queensland, G. Hubbard of Western Australia third, then B.J. Foster of Tasmania and D. Dudgeon of Victoria. 

In the Pair-oared Championship of Australia over 2000 metres, Victoria won by 3 1/2 lengths to New South Wales with Tasmania third, a further 2 1/2 lengths behind. 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 3 miles for the King's Cup it looked like a win for Victoria when they were still in front after 2 miles but the spirit of Western Australia (the lightest crew in the race) told against the former titleholder. Queensland remained in third place for a long stretch but New South Wales overtook them before the end of the second mile. Western Australia drew level with Victoria with 1000 yards to go and then went on with the job and won by 2 1/2 lengths to Victoria, three lengths to New South Wales, 3/4 length to Queensland, three lengths to Tasmania and then South Australia. 

Bundaberg introduced a local Head of the River in fours, and hoped to enlarge the competition to include Rockhampton and Maryborough. 

The Annual Conference was held in Bundaberg and one of the major issues was the matter of rail freight on boats, which was eventually decided between the Railway Department and the Q.A.R.C. on terms fair to both parties. 

Tweed Heads & Coolangatta RC. won the Premiership for 1954/55 with 103 points to Toowong on 78 points. 

The chief focus of the 1955 annual report was the need to conduct a major drive in all centres for new members. The international standard for lightweight rowers of 10st. 10 lbs. was adopted at the meeting. The weight limit had moved from 10st. to 10st. 4 lbs. and now 10st. 10 lbs. which equated to at least half of the men in the King's Cup eight in many previous years. C. Cullen and R.G. Longmore were elected as Honorary Life Members at this meeting. The office bearers remained unchanged at the 1955 meeting. 

The boat race officials were:- L. Trout (Judge), A. Lewis (Umpire) and C. Cullen (Starter). 

1955-56

The Champion Four of Queensland was rowed at Bundaberg on October 29, 1955. The championship was held over 2000 metres possibly to give four-oared crews aspiring to gain selection in the 1956 Olympic Trials experience over the distance. There were six contestants - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg District, Wide Bay R.C., TH&CRC, Commercial R.C. and Toowong RC.. It was evident after the first half mile that there were only three crews (Tweed, Commercial and Toowong) with a winning chance as Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Wide Bay were already lengths in the rear. Tweed rowed well within themselves and withstood challenges by Commercial and Toowong in the closing stages to win by three lengths to Commercial, 2 1/2 lengths to Toowong, then Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Wide Bay. 

The winning TH&CRC crew was - K. Goswell (B) F. Jaques (2) R. Barrett (3) R. Green (S) P. Boyd (Cox) and J. Bolster (Coach). 

Tweed also won the Champion Four of the Burnett later in the day. Toowong won the Champion Junior Four (Second Grade) of the Burnett. 

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed in Brisbane on March 10, 1956. The Rockhampton Ladies (Leichhardt R.C.) were much more experienced than the Bundaberg Ladies and won by 2 1/2 lengths. This was the first win for Rockhampton in the 27 years history of the race, and their first appearance for 19 years. 

The winning Rockhampton District (Leichhardt R.C.) Ladies were Misses J. Duval (B) A. Sue (2) J. Dunphy (3) V. Weber (S) and Mr. K. Walsh (Cox).

The Champion Eights regatta was held on the Milton Reach in Brisbane on March 31, 1956. In the Champion Sculls over 2000 metres K. Goswell of Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. defeated J. Kerr of Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) by four lengths with P. Griffiths of Toowong R.C. tailed off twenty lengths back. 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles Brisbane District (TH&CRC) defeated Bundaberg R.C. by seven lengths with Toowong R.C. a further half length behind. 

The winning Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew was - P. Walsh (B) J. Webb (2) R. Smith (3) F. Walsh (S) and P. Boyd (Cox).

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 1 1/2 miles the Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew defeated Toowong R.C. by five lengths with a further seven lengths to Commercial R.C.. 

The winning Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew was - P. Walsh (B) J. Webb (2) R. Smith (3) F. Walsh (S) and P. Boyd (Cox).

This meant that the Tweed Heads Under 20 Four had won two State titles on the day - Under 20 and Lightweight Fours. 

The Champion Eight over 2000 metres saw Tweed Heads hold off a fast finishing Brisbane District (composite) crew by a canvas with 2 1/2 lengths to Bundaberg in third place. 

The winning TH&CRC crew was – K .Maher (B) B. Norman (2) K. Goswell (3) F. Jaques (4) B. Dorrough (5) A. Douglas (6) R. Barrett (7) J. Boyd (S) J. Smithers (Cox) and J. Bolster (Coach).

The TH&CRC had won all mens State titles for the season. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed at Iron Cove in Sydney on April 14, 1956. New South Wales easily won the title by twelve lengths to Queensland with South Australia a further length back in third place. Queensland had started off well but rowed a little short and in the final stages gave the impression of being out of condition. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses I. Duval (B) A. Sue (2) J. Dunphy (3) V. Weber (S) and Mr.K. Walsh (Cox). 

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on Milton Reach on April 21, 1956. In the First Eight over 2000 metres for the Head of the River, the crews got away at the fourth attempt in a strong cross wind. Brisbane Boys' College won by one and a quarter lengths to The Southport School, followed by Church of England Grammar School, Brisbane Grammar School and St. Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace. 

The winning crew was:- J. Wilson (B) G. Kerrison (2) R. Philp (3) R. Bodman (4) I. Mayes (5) I. Cook (6) P.B.B. Clarke (7) J. Adam (S) T. Egerton (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by B.B.C. from G.T. and C.E.G.S.. (dead heat second) 

The Second Four was won by T.S.S. from B.B.C. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and T.S.S.. 

The Fourth Four was won by T.S.S. from G.T. and B.B.C.. 

The Fifth Four was won by C.E.G.S. from C.E.G.S and B.G.S.. 

The Interstate Championships were rowed on Lake Wendouree, Ballarat on May 4 & 5, 1956 over 2000 metres and were the official Olympic Trials for the single sculls and eight. 

In the Interstate Championship Single Sculls for the President's Cup there were three heats. On the Friday in Heat 1, M. Wood of New South Wales defeated T. Machin of South Australia - Heat 2, S. Mackenzie of New South Wales defeated J. Rosser of Western Australia and D. Dudgeon of Victoria - Heat 3, G. Hubbard of Western Australia defeated G. Squires of Tasmania and K. Goswell of Queensland. In the repechage later that afternoon for the losers in the heats G. Squires of Tasmania defeated K. Goswell of Queensland followed by T. Machin, D. Dudgeon and J. Rosser. 

In the final on the Saturday S. Mackenzie of New South Wales defeated M. Wood of New South Wales by three lengths, then two lengths to G. Squires of Tasmania and two lengths to G. Hubbard of Western Australia. 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race for the King's Cup there were three heats on the Friday. In Heat 1, New South Wales defeated South Australia - Heat 2, Western Australia defeated Tasmania - Heat 3, Victoria defeated Queensland. In the repechage for the losers later that afternoon Queensland defeated Tasmania and South Australia. 

In the final on the Saturday Victoria defeated New South Wales by 3/4 length with three lengths to Queensland and a further 3/4 length to Western Australia. 

The Annual Conference was held in Brisbane after the Queensland Eights Regatta had to be transferred from Rockhampton at the last moment because of an approaching flood at Rockhampton. Bundaberg proposed that the eights title be rowed before Christmas in the 1957/58 season in an effort to avoid flooded rivers which occur after Christmas in the monsoon season. 

Tweed Heads & Coolangatta Rowing Club won the 1955/56 Premiership with 129 points to Commercial with 63 points. 

Edward Kenny, who had been Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the A.A.RC. since its foundation in 1925, passed away on April 20, 1956, and an appeal was launched to establish a memorial to his service. The memorial became the Kenny Medallions which are presented each year to the winning crew, cox and coach of the King's Cup and to the winner of the President's Cup. 

The President of the Q.A.R.C., D.E. (Dan) Joyce also passed away during the season. He participated in the early Intercolonial Races, firstly as a cox then as stroke in the 1880's and 1890's. Throughout his life his interest in and support of rowing never abated and he was a powerful influence in rowing and also in business and church life. 

Harold Alderson, who was a foundation member and Past President of the A.A.R.C. representing New South Wales, Chairman of the N.S.W.R.A. for 35 years and Chairman of the Australian Olympic Federation for a number of years, was knighted for his services to rowing and sport in general. The Q.A.R.C. extended their hearty congratulations to Sir Harold Alderson, K.B.. 

At the 1956 A.G.M. G.R.H.(Roy) Gill replaced the late Dan Joyce as President and Cal Malouf replaced Graham Savage as Honorary Treasurer. 

1956-57

The Champion Four of Queensland over 2000 metres was rowed at Maryborough on September 8, 1956 to decide who would be Queensland representative in the Olympic Trials at Lake Wendouree on October 12 & 13, 1956. Five crews contested the championship - Wide Bay R.C., Tweed Heads No. I and No.2, Toowong R.C. and Commercial R.C.. Tweed No. 1 and Commercial led out and battled it out until half a mile to go when Tweed No.2 moved through and went on to win by two lengths to Commercial, then Tweed No. 1, Toowong and Wide Bay. 

The winning TH&CRC crew was - P. Walsh (B) A. Vidler (2) J. Boyd (3) F. Walsh (S) and P. Boyd (Cox). 

The Olympic trials for the Four without Cox were held on the Nepean River at Penrith on September 28/29, 1956. All crews were from New South Wales clubs, six crews being entered and the trial was won by a Leichhardt four. 

The trials for the other boats (eight and single sculls excluded) were held at Lake Wendouree, Ballarat on October 12/13. The following fields were entered - Four with Cox 13 crews, Pair with Cox 8 crews, Pair without Cox 8 crews, Double Sculls 4 crews. All States were represented as follows - Victoria 9 clubs, New South Wales 7 clubs, Tasmania 2 clubs, Western Australia 1 club, Queensland 2 clubs and South Australia 1 club. It could be said that these entries were truly representative of Australian rowing strength. The final results of these trials were:-

Four with CoxAlbert Park/Hawthorne Composite 

Pair with CoxAlbert Park 

Pair without CoxNorth Shore (NSW) 

Double ScullsSydney RC 

In these trials Tweed Heads competed in the Four with Cox and proceeded through a heat, repechage and semi-final to the four boat final in which they came third two and a quarter lengths behind the winners. Three lengths covered all four crews. 

A Commercial crew competed in the Pair without Cox. In their heat the race was re-rowed after bad umpiring marred the event. They went on to win the re-row. Five crews contested the final and Commercial came third after poor steering lost them ground and second placing. 

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed at Rockhampton on November 10, 1956. The Maryborough District (Wide Bay R.C.) Ladies pulled away to a length lead over Brisbane shortly after half a mile had been covered. Brisbane had crabbed and lost ground at the start but were level with Rockhampton at the halfway. Maryborough went away in the final stages to win by 2 1/2 lengths to Brisbane then Rockhampton a further length away. The usual stroke of the Maryborough crew withdrew on the Friday with influenza and B. Stephenson stroked a crew for the first time. 

The winning Maryborough District (Wide Bay R.C.) Ladies were Misses S. Goysing (B) E. Goodman (2) A. Camp (3) B. Stephenson (S) and Mr. C. Sinclair (Cox).

The Olympic Games rowing events were conducted at Lake Wendouree from 23 to 27 November, 1956, with the Sunday being the rest day. Entries were quite good, the crews starting in each event being:-

Single Sculls 12Double Scull  8

Pair without Cox   9Pair with Cox  9

Four without Cox 13Four with Cox11

Eight 10

The course provided for four lanes in each event. In the Single Sculls final S. MacKenzie of Australia led most of the way until Ivanov of U.S.S.R. rowed him down in the last 250 metres. In the Double Sculls the U.S.S.R. won from the U.S.A. and Australia third. In the Pair without Cox Australia finished fourth behind U.S.A., U.S.S.R. and Austria. In the Pair with Cox Australia did not make the final, which was won by U.S.A. from Germany and U.S.S.R.. In the Four without Cox Australia did not make the final which was won by Canada from U.S.A. and France. In the Four with Cox Australia finished fourth behind Italy, Sweden and Finland. In the Eight Australia finished third behind U.S.A. and Canada. Mention must be made of the record of M.T.(Merv) Wood who represented Australia for the fourth time over a period of twenty years, winning a bronze medal in the Double Sculls to bring his Olympic record to one gold medal, one silver and one bronze medal..

This concluded, in a very successful manner, the greatest rowing season ever held in Australia.

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on the Milton Reach on April 6, 1957. The First Eight over 2000 metres for the Head of the River was won by Brisbane Boys' College by three quarters of a length to The Southport School, followed by Brisbane Grammar School, St. Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace, Church of England Grammar School and Brisbane State High School. 

The winning crew was:- J. Drewe (B) I. Sinnamon (2) D. Blunck (3) E. Thompson (4) I. Mayes (5) R. Philp (6) J. Wilson (7) J. Adam (S) I. McDougall (Cox) and D. Magoffin (Coach).

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by C.E.G.S. from B.G.S. and T.S.S.. 

The Second Four was won by C.E.G.S. from B.B.C. and T.S.S.. 

The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and B.G.S.. 

The Fourth Four was won by C.E.G.S. from T.S.S. with two B.G.S. crews dead heated for third. 

The Fifth Four was won by C.E.G.S from C.E.G.S. and B.G.S.. 

The Champion Eights regatta was held in Maryborough on April 20, 1957. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles K. Goswell of Tweed Heads, who had earlier in the day rowed in the winning Champion Eight, won the race when E. Turton of Wide Bay steered poorly while holding a clear lead in the home straight. Goswell sensed Turton was in trouble and raised another effort and got the decision by a few feet. 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles, the Bundaberg crew won from Commercial and Toowong. 

The winning Bundaberg R.C. crew was - E. Zunker (B) L. Zunker (2) G. Zunker (3) G. Zunker (S) and B. Zunker (Cox).

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 1 1/2 miles Tweed Heads defeated Bundaberg for the title. 

P. Walsh who went in as bow in the Tweed eight only 4 days before, doubled up to row in the Lightweight Four.

The winning TH&CRC crew was - P. Walsh (B) A. Vidler (2) R. Smith (3) F. Walsh (S) and J. Smithers (Cox).

In the Champion Eight over 3 miles there were six starters - Bundaberg R.C., Wide Bay R.C., TH&CRC, Commercial R.C., U.Q.B.C. and Toowong R.C.. In the first start, Toowong and Tweed clashed and the race was re-started. In the re-start Tweed bounced out slightly in front of Commercial and gradually these two crews singled out from the field. Tweed kept up full pressure and sprinted over the last few hundred yards to win by five lengths to Commercial, four lengths to Toowong, then University, Bundaberg and Wide Bay. 

The winning TH&CRC crew was - P. Walsh (B) B. Colquhoun (2) K. Goswell (3) F. Jaques (4) B. Dorrough (5) J. Boyd (6) R. Barrett (7) R. Green (S) J. Smithers (Cox) and H. Green (Coach).

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Town Reach in Brisbane on April 27, 1957. After a delay of about an hour to catch the dead water, New South Wales got away badly but were level after 200 yards. New South Wales paddled steadily until half way and then went into top gear and pulled away to win by five lengths to Victoria and a further three lengths to the young Queensland crew who rowed well but did not have the strength of the other crews. The Queensland Ladies were Misses S. Goysing (B) A. Melville (2) A. Camp (3) B. Stephenson (S) and Mr.C. Sinclair (Cox). 

The Interstate Championships were rowed on the Hamilton Reach in Brisbane on May 11, 1957. In the Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup, S. Mackenzie of New South Wales had no trouble retaining his title winning by twelve lengths to G. Squires of Tasmania, four lengths to J. Rosser of Western Australia and E. Turton of Queensland outclassed.

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 3 miles for the King's Cup, Queensland led out and at the half mile was ahead of Tasmania and New South Wales. After a mile Victoria inched ahead, with Queensland hanging on grimly with New South Wales a canvas back. At the two miles Victoria still led from Queensland who were still hanging on at a high rating, but were then passed by New South Wales. With a final burst Victoria won by four lengths to New South Wales, six lengths to Queensland, 2 1/2 lengths to South Australia and Tasmania tailed right off. 

The Annual Conference was held in Maryborough and a decision was made to hold the conferences bi­annually in conjunction with the Champion Fours and the Champion Eights. 

At the A.A.R.C. level a decision was made to introduce an Australian Championship Lightweight Four with Cox over 2000 metres at Penrith in 1958. To commemorate the implementation of the Australian Champion Lightweight Four with Cox, the initial race of which was to be held at Penrith, the Penrith City Council offered to supply a perpetual trophy and annual medallions to be presented to the winners of the race. The A.A.RC. accepted this offer and the "Penrith Cup" was attached to the lightweight event. 

Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. won the 1956/57 Premiership with 106 points to Wide Bay R.C. on 84 points. This was their third successive win. 

At the 1957 A.G.M. Bob Longmore stepped down as Honorary Secretary to be replaced by Cal Malouf and Graham Savage returned to the position of Honorary Treasurer. With the severe illness of the Governor, Sir John Lavarack, the Chief Justice Sir Alan Mansfield, K.C.M.G., acting as Administrator, granted his patronage to the Q.A.R.C.. Eric Evers was elected as an Honorary Life Member. 

1957-58

The Champion Four of Queensland over 2 miles was rowed on the Milton Reach in Brisbane on November 16, 1957. Seven crews were entered - Bundaberg District, Bundaberg R.C., TH&CRC, Toowong R.C., U.Q.B.C., Commercial R.C. and Brisbane District (Commercial). The very young Bundaberg R.C. crew set the pace for the early stages of the race and were then overtaken by the other crews. Commercial went to the lead and with half a mile to go had 3/4 length on Brisbane who tried desperately to close the gap, and with 100 yards to go Brisbane were only a canvas behind when their No.3 man crabbed and their boat stopped. Commercial also stopped, thinking the race was over, and luckily the current carried them over the line half a length clear of Brisbane, then 3 lengths to Tweed followed by Bundaberg and the other crews. 

The winning Commercial R.C. crew whose average age was only 20 years was - C. Bandera (B) K. Geschke (2) R. Lyell (3) T. Clarke (S) and B. Copley (Cox).

The test races for the Empire Games at Cardiff in Wales were conducted at Ballarat on January 18, 1958, for the Eight and Double Sculls and at Penrith on January 25 for the Four with Cox, Four without Cox and Pair with Cox. The only Queensland crew competing in these test races was a "Zunker" Four with Cox from Bundaberg R.C.. 

New South Wales clubs won all the test races contested and the team personnel was as follows:-

Single ScullsS. MacKenzie 

Double Sculls M. Riley & M.T. Wood 

Eight, Four w/out Cox and Four with Cox (Members of the Eight make up the Fours)

B. Evans 

N. Clinton 

R. Currall 

V. Schweikert 

K. Railton

P. Waddington

G. Allen

K. Evans

L. Robberds (Cox) 

Dr. E.O. Longley (coach)

Pair with CoxJ. Chapman & K. Webb 

ManagerE.C.S. Holford

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed at Maryborough on March 8, 1958. There were eight crews entered according to the "Maryborough Chronicle" but only six were actually named - Rockhampton, Bundaberg, two Wide Bay crews, University and Tweed Heads. Tweed Heads won from Wide Bay and University but there were protests from other clubs at the use of a "best and best" boat by Tweed when the other crews said regulation fours were specified, and also protests at the conduct of the start, where the umpire had been dissatisfied at the way the crews were lined up and had called to the starter just as the gun was fired. No trophies were awarded and the protests were referred to the Queensland Womens' Rowing Council. 

The race was re-rowed on Milton Reach in Brisbane on March 22, 1958, and Tweed Heads held off a strong challenge by University at the finish to win by 3/4 length with Wide Bay No.2 crew in third place a further length away. Wide Bay No. I crew completed only 200 yards of the course and had to retire with rigger problems. 

The winning Tweed Heads Ladies were Misses P. Radcliffe (B) G. O'Keefe (2) P. Vollmerhausen (3) M. Tiemey (S) J. Moffatt (Cox) and Mr .J. Smithers (Coach).

The Champion Eights regatta was held in Bundaberg on April 5, 1958, and all races were rowed in very rough conditions. In the Champion Sculls over 2 1/2 miles, K. Goswell of TH&CRC had a very easy win by 400 yards over J. Dowrie of Toowong R.C. whose scull suffered a split canvas in the heavy conditions at the start, and a further 400 yards to R. Kerrison, also of Toowong. 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles, the Bundaberg R.C. crew won convincingly by five lengths to University, a half length to Commercial in third place and Toowong fourth. 

The winning Bundaberg R.C. crew was - E. Zunker (B) L. Zunker (2) G. Zunker (3) G. Zunker (S) and B. Zunker (Cox) and this was their second win in this event.

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 1 1/2 miles there were only two entries, Commercial R.C. and TH&CRC. Tweed led out from the start in the rough water and led Commercial by four lengths at the Millaquin comer but, in the much calmer water after the comer, Commercial caught up to within a canvas at the finish. 

The winning Tweed Heads crew was - P. Walsh (B) A. Vidler (2) R. Smith (3) F. Walsh (S) and J. Smithers (Cox).

The Champion Eight over 3 miles was rowed in very adverse conditions and five crews were entered - Bundaberg R.C., Wide Bay R.C., TH&CRC, U.Q.B.C., and Brisbane District (Composite). The cross wind in the first two miles was so bad that three crews were forced to empty their boats before they could start, and a further delay was caused by a fishing launch which refused to co-operate with the officials and ploughed through the crews coming up to the starting line. Tweed and Brisbane led out from the start and were on level terms for about 3/4 mile. Brisbane, the heaviest crew in the race, shipped a lot of water and began to have difficulty in clearing the blades in the stem. Tweed took advantage of this and went to the lead at the mile mark, handling the conditions very well. By the Millaquin corner Tweed was five lengths clear and lifted their rating to finish nine lengths ahead of University who finished strongly to just overtake the near swamped Brisbane crew, then followed Wide Bay and Bundaberg. Tweed often had to train in conditions such as this regatta produced, on the Fingal Reach of the Tweed River where their 3 mile course was situated, and which is only separated from the ocean breezes by a narrow strip of land. 

The winning Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. crew was - M. Leffers (B) B. Wilson (2) R. Barrett (3) R. Green (4) K. Turton (5) F. Jaques (6) J. Boyd (7) B. Colquhoun (S) W. Barnett (Cox) and J. Bolster (Coach).

In the Burnett River titles held later in the afternoon, Ken Goswell of Tweed again won the sculls, Bundaberg won the Under 20 Four, Tweed won the Lightweight Four and the Brisbane District defeated Tweed in the river eight. In the Champion Ladies' Four of the river, Wide Bay defeated two Bundaberg fours. 

A State title for the Secondary School Champion Four of Queensland was held for the first time at the Easter Regatta. A Mr. A.T. Matthews-Frederick donated a handsome trophy for the competition and the Q.A.R.C. sanctioned the race at the November 1957 bi-annual conference. Only two crews entered - Bundaberg High School and Brisbane Boys' College. The race was won by the Bundaberg High crew of G. White (B), W. Hall (2), J. Stewart (3), R. Cullen (S) and G. Payne (Cox).

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Yarra River in Melbourne on April 12, 1958. Leading all the way the New South Wales Ladies outclassed Queensland who rowed a plucky race to finish two lengths in front of Victoria. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses P. Radcliffe (B) G. O'Keefe (2) P. Vollmerhausen (3) M. Tierney (S) J. Moffatt (Cox) and Mr. J. Smithers (Coach).

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on the Milton Reach on April 12, 1958. The First Eight over 2000 metres for the Head of the River, was won by The Southport School by half a length to St. Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace, followed by Brisbane Grammar School, Brisbane State High School, Brisbane Boys' College and Church of England Grammar School. 

The winning crew was:- P. Champion (B) J.E.D. White (2) J.W. Heckels (3) J.R. Hunter (4) T.A.L. Armstrong (5) R.J. Kelly (6) G.E. Davidson (7) W.J.R. Chandler (S) A.F.H. Matthews (Cox) and C. Bere (Coach). 

The first five crews finished within one and three quarter lengths of the winner. 

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by T.S.S. from B.G.S. and B.B.C.. 

The Second Four was won by B.G.S. from G.T. and T.S.S.. 

The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.B.C. from T.S.S. and G.T. in a dead heat for second place. The Fourth Four was won by C.E.G.S. from T.S.S. and B.G.S.. 

The Fifth Four was won by C.E.G.S. A from B.G.S. A and B.B.C.. 

The Sixth Four was won by B.G.S. A from B.B.C. and B.G.S. B. 

The Seventh Four was won by C.E.G.S. A from C.E.G.S B and B.B.C.. 

The Interstate Championships were held on the Nepean River at Penrith on May 3, 1958. The Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup was won by Steve Roll of New South Wales by five lengths from G. Squires of Tasmania and G. Hubbard of Western Australia third, followed by D. Dudgeon of Victoria. K. Goswell of Queensland surprisingly dropped out with 200 yards to go.

The initial Interstate Championship Lightweight Four over 2000 metres (1 1/4 miles) for the Penrith Cup was contested by four crews - South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Queensland led for the first 3/4 mile but was then passed by Victoria and New South Wales, who fought the race out stroke for stroke over the last half mile with Victoria winning by 3 feet to New South Wales, five lengths to Queensland followed by South Australia. 

The Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 3 miles for the King's Cup saw the six crews get away to a perfect start with Victoria, Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland beginning at a very high rate which virtually outpaced and outclassed Tasmania and South Australia in the first 3/4 mile. These four crews raced virtually neck and neck for the next 1 1/2 miles. Victoria got to the lead and were pushed hard by the lighter Western Australian crew. Victoria won by 1 1/4 lengths to Western Australia who had rowed the last 300 yards without two of their men rowing (the No.4 man had collapsed and was being supported by the No.3) and then New South Wales in third place a length behind, followed by Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia. 

The Intervarsity Boat Race over 3 miles was rowed in South Australia in 1958 with six crews competing - University of Western Australia, Adelaide University, University of Tasmania, Melbourne University, Sydney University and Queensland University. The race was rowed in conditions which were not good. Queensland and Melbourne led out, but then Queensland kept on going and were not headed to win by ten lengths from Melbourne. This was Queenland's first win in this race for 34 years. The winning crew was I. Cook (B), J. Drewe (2), P. Jorss (3), B. Palmer (4), I. Mayes (5), P. Apel (6), B. Clarke (7), L. Andrews (S), D. Purdy (Cox), E.P. Evers and Roger Day (Coaches).

The Bi-annual Conferences were held in Brisbane on November 16, 1957, and in Bundaberg on April 4, 1958. 

At the Empire Games held in Cardiff, Wales, in February, 1958, Stuart MacKenzie of Australia won the Single Sculls. S. MacKenzie and M. Wood (now 41 yrs of age) came second in the Double Sculls. 

Tweed Heads & Coolangatta R.C. won their fourth consecutive Premiership with 113 points to Commercial on 81 points. 

At the 1958 A.G.M. J.J. Delahunty was elected an Honorary Life Member. The new Governor of Queensland, His Excellency Sir Henry Abel-Smith, K.C.V.O., D.S.O., granted his patronage to the Q.A.R.C. while other office bearers remained unaltered. 

1958-59

The Champion Four of Queensland over 2 miles was rowed in Bundaberg on October 11, 1958, with four starters - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg R.C., TH&CRC and Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.). Tweed was the first to show out followed by Bundaberg and Brisbane. Bundaberg then went to the lead and after 3/4 mile it was apparent that Bundaberg and Brisbane would fight out the finish. Brisbane steadily moved up on Bundaberg and with 400 yards to go moved to the lead to win by 3 1/2 lengths with a further three lengths to Tweed and Rockhampton tailed off. 

The winning Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) crew was - C. Bandera (B) K. Geschke (2) R. Lyell (3) T. Clarke (S) and P. Harburg (Cox).

The Champion Four of the Burnett was won by Bundaberg with Tweed Heads second. 

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship over 3/4 mile was rowed on Milton Reach in Brisbane on February 28, 1959, and Wide Bay Ladies defeated Brisbane Ladies by ten lengths. 

The winning Wide Bay Ladies were Misses H. Wenk (B) V. Haapakoski (2) B. Window (3) N. Watson (S) Mr.K. Cordie (Cox) and Mr. J. Mansfield (Coach). 

The Champion Eights regatta was rowed on Milton Reach in Brisbane on March 28, 1959. The distance of the Champion Sculls and the Champion Eight was reduced to the Olympic distance of 2000 metres, the Under 20 Four continued at 1 1/4 miles (2000 metres) and the Lightweight Four stayed at 1 1/2 miles. 

The Champion Sculls over 2000 metres saw a field of nine starters. Teenaged R. McLellan of Commercial R.C. won the title at his first attempt by six lengths to P. Walsh of Brisbane District (TH&CRC) and E. Turton of Maryborough District (Wide Bay R.C.) a half length back.

The Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles saw the Bundaberg District crew win their third successive Under 20 title with the greatest of ease by four lengths to Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) with a canvas to Bundaberg R.C. in third place. No other crew had previously won three in succession. 

The winning Bundaberg District crew was - E. Zunker (B) L. Zunker (2) G. Zunker (3) G. Zunker (S) and B. Zunker (Cox).

The Champion Lightweight Four over 1 1/2 miles again saw only two contestants with the Brisbane District (TH&CRC) crew winning by 2 1/2 lengths to an inexperienced Toowong crew. This was the fourth successive Lightweight Four title stroked by F. Walsh. 

The winning Brisbane District (Tweed Heads) crew was - P. Walsh (B) R. Smith (2) A. Vidler (3) F. Walsh (S) and L. Barnett (Cox).

The Champion Eight over 2000 metres was contested by Bundaberg District, Brisbane District (U.Q.B.C.), TH&CRC, Commercial R. C. and Toowong R.C.. Shortly after the start Tweed took a half length lead over Brisbane. At the half way Brisbane asserted their superiority to move to the lead with Commercial coming with a late finishing burst to take second place one length behind Brisbane with Tweed in third place 1 1/4 lengths further back. 

The winning Brisbane District (University) crew was - I. Cook (B) B. Palmer (2) P. Jorss (3) J. Ireland (4) I. Mayes (5) P. Apel (6) J. Drewe (7) L. Andrews (S) D. Purdy (Cox) and E.P. Evers (Coach).

The Champion Schoolboys' Four over 1 mile was strongly supported with seven crews - Bundaberg High School, Maryborough High School, St. Joseph's Gregory Terrace, Brisbane Grammar School and three Brisbane Boys' College crews. Setting a high rating Gregory Terrace soon established a definite lead which they increased as the race progressed to win by four lengths to Brisbane Boys' College and B.B.C. third a further half length away. 

The winning St. Joseph's Gregory Terrace crew was - K. Grant (B) J. Kopicke (2) A. Russell (3) B. Murphy (S) and R. Gundelach (Cox).

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on Milton Reach on April 4, 1959. In the First Eight over 2000 metres, for the Head of the River, The Southport School won by a canvas to St. Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace, from Brisbane Grammar School and Brisbane Boys' College who dead heated for third place, then Brisbane State High School and Church of England Grammar School. 

The winning crew was:- K.C. Krimmer (B) G.W. Isaacs (2) P. St.Henry (3) J.N.L. Armstrong (4) B.D. McCullough (5) J.E.D. White (6) P.A. Rae (7) C.A.A. Elliot (S) B.C.M. Egan (Cox) and C. Bere (Coach).

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by C.E.G.S. and B.B.C. in a dead heat for first place, followed by G.T..

The Second Four was won by G.T. from B.B.C. and B.G.S. in a dead heat for second place.

The Third Four was won by B.B.C. and B.G.S. who dead heated for first place, followed by T.S.S.. 

The Fourth Four was won by C.E.G.S. from B.B.C. and B.G.S.. 

The Fifth Four was won by B.B.C. and B.G.S A in a dead heat for first place, followed by B.G.S. B. 

The Sixth Four was won by B.B.C. B from G.T. with B.G.S. B and C.E.G.S A in a dead heat for third place. 

The Seventh Four was won by B.B.C. from B.G.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Eighth Four was won by B.G.S. from C.E.G.S. A and C.E.G.S. B. 

The Interstate Championships were held on the Swan River in Perth on April 18, 1959, and the only Queensland representative was R.H. McLellan. 

The Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2 1/2 miles for the President's Cup saw W. Hatfield of New South Wales hit the front in the first 100 yards, never to be headed. He defeated G. Squires of Tasmania by 17 seconds with G. Hubbard of Western Australia a further 4 seconds back, then followed N. Smith of Victoria and R. McLellan of Queensland. 

The Interstate Championship Lightweight Four over 2000 metres for the Penrith Cup saw four starters. Western Australia got a good start and raced away from the other crews. New South Wales chased hard for the first 1000 metres but with the outcome never in doubt New South Wales and Victoria began to wilt under the pressure. Western Australia crossed the line the easiest of winners and rowing effortlessly to become the first Western Australian crew to win an Australian title in Western Australia. New South Wales were 2 1/2 lengths back second, 2 1/2 lengths to Victoria third and South Australia fourth. 

The Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 3 miles for the King's Cup saw all States except Queensland competing. Victoria was first away but after half a mile New South Wales moved through to the lead and were never troubled to win by four lengths to Victoria, 2 1/2 lengths to Western Australia, then Tasmania and South Australia. 

Following a motion from Queensland the A.A.RC. decided to make the 1960 King's Cup Regatta over 2000 metres and for the race to be the test race for Olympic representation in the Eight. By winning the Queensland Championship Eight, the University of Queensland Boat Club crew became the selected Queensland representative crew to contest the test race subject to challenge one month before the test race. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 3/4 mile for the U.L.V.A. Trophy was rowed on the Parramatta River in Sydney on May 2, 1959. New South Wales defeated Victoria by half a length with Queensland three lengths behind in third place. 

The Queensland Ladies were Misses H. Wenk (B) V. Haapakoski (2) B. Window (3) N. Watson (S) Mr. K. Cordie (Cox) and Mr. J. Mansfield (Coach). 

The Intervarsity Boat Race was rowed over three miles on the Nepean River on May 30, 1959. The crews were lined up - University of Queensland, Sydney University, University of Western Australia, Adelaide University, University of New South Wales and Melbourne University. Under perfect conditions Sydney, Melbourne and University of NSW led out, but Queensland surged to the lead after half a mile. Sydney challenged at the mile and Queensland had to lift their rating and the other crews were dropping back. Queensland maintained their lead and although Sydney practically drew level with a quarter of a mile to go, Queensland won by half a length to Sydney, then University of NSW, Melbourne, University of Western Australia and Adelaide. 

The winning crew was - J. Drewe (B), B. Palmer (2), P. Jorss (3), J. Ireland (4), I. Mayes (5), P. Apel (6), B. Clarke (7), L. Andrews (S), D. Purdy (Cox) and E.P. Evers (Coach).

The Pine Rivers Rowing Club affiliated with the Q.A.R.C. during the season and their clubhouse was expected to be completed late in 1959. 

There was very little activity in the country districts during the season, no river eights titles being contested outside Brisbane, no river fours of the Fitzroy, no lightweight river fours outside Brisbane, no river Under 20 fours outside Brisbane and no river sculls outside Brisbane. 

The 1958/59 Premiership was won by University of Queensland Boat Club who competed in the Champion Eight of the Brisbane River and of Queensland, winning both races. These were the only races they contested and they were able to win the premiership because so many river titles were not contested, and Commercial, Bundaberg and Tweed Heads shared out the fours titles. The points scored were U.Q.B.C. 64, Commercial 59, Bundaberg 54 and Tweed 31. 

Notices of motion for the 1959 A.G.M. covered adoption of the International Rule for Umpires whereby each boat was required to keep its own water throughout the race; that the King's Cup be reduced to 2000 metres; that all State Championships be controlled by officials taken from a panel of accredited officials; and from the Easter conference, a motion seeking to add pair-oar races to Trial, Maiden, Junior and Junior-senior status. 

The only change in office bearers at the 1959 A.G.M. was the election of Wilf Mole as Honorary Treasurer to replace Graham Savage. 

1959-60

In order to accommodate the change in the date of the 1960 King's Cup regatta to March 19, 1960, which change was made to allow selection of crews for the Rome Olympics in August, 1960, the Champion Eights regatta was held in Maryborough on December 12, 1959. 

In the Champion Sculls over 2000 metres R. McLellan of Commercial R.C. easily defeated P. Walsh of TH&CRC by two lengths with D. Donnelly of Leichhardt R.C. a further ten lengths back. 

In the Champion Under 20 Four over 1 1/4 miles the Bundaberg District crew led from start to finish to defeat TH&CRC by 1 1/4 lengths with 1 1/4 lengths to the Bundaberg R.C. crew. 

The winning Bundaberg District crew was - G. Phillips (B) W. Hall (2) L. Ferguson (3) B. Hellmore (S) and I. Lohse (Cox).

In the Champion Lightweight Four over 1 1/2 miles Tweed Heads won the title for the fifth year in a row by 2 1/2 lengths to Rockhampton District (Leichhardt R.C.) with a further 2 1/2 lengths to Brisbane District (Toowong R.C.). 

The winning TH&CRC crew was - P. Walsh (B) P. Suter (2) A. Vidler (3) F. Walsh (S) and L. Barnett (Cox).

The Champion Eight over 2000 metres had four starters - Bundaberg R.C., Maryborough District (Wide Bay R.C.), Toowong R.C. and Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.). After a delay of some 25 minutes, caused by the starter being uncertain as to the position of the start, the crews got away together. Brisbane was a length ahead of Toowong after half a mile and increased the lead to win by three lengths over Toowong who were subsequently disqualified for crossing into Bundaberg's water. Bundaberg was placed second and Maryborough District was third, well out of the picture. This was the first win for Commercial R.C. in the Champion Eights for 34 years.

The winning Brisbane District (Commercial R.C.) crew was - C. Bandera (B) F. Wright (2) K. Monk (3) S. Hinchy (4) S. Krasnoff (5) K. Geschke (6) R. Lyell (7) T. Clarke (S) and P. Harburg (Cox).

The University eight which had been nominated in 1959 as Queensland representative in the King's Cup in 1960 which was to be the Olympic test race, duly held off a challenge from Commercial and Tweed in a race held on February 21, 1960. 

The Interstate Championships were rowed on the Tamar River, Launceston on March 19, 1960. In the Interstate Championship Single Sculls over 2000 metres for the President's Cup, Ian Tutty of New South Wales took the lead after 50 metres and went on to finish three lengths clear of G. Squires of Tasmania, with P. Edwards of Victoria and R. McLellan of Queensland following. 

In the Interstate Championship Lightweight Four over 2000 metres for the Penrith Cup, Victoria jumped away at the start but after 200 metres Western Australia, rowing brilliantly, had half a length clear. Victoria challenged Western Australia at the 500 metre mark but Western Australia held them. At the 1000 metre mark New South Wales challenged strongly but Western Australia had the race and won comfortably from New South Wales with Victoria third followed by South Australia and Tasmania. 

In the Interstate Championship Eight-oared Race over 2000 metres for the King's Cup Western Australia and Victoria rowed stroke for stroke over the first 1000 metres with New South Wales and Queensland close by. Passing the halfway, Western Australia increased its rating to 39 and drew clear of Victoria with 

New South Wales then rowing into second place. With about 300 metres to go New South Wales threw out a strong challenge to Western Australia with Victoria also coming again. New South Wales cut Western Australia's margin to 3/4 length in the final 50 metres but could get no closer. Victoria held on to take third place from Queensland. It was said that 6 1/2 lengths covered the six crews, Queensland being about four lengths from the winners, Western Australia. 

The Ladies' Four-oared Championship was rowed over 1000 metres at Maryborough on March 26, 1960. The Wide Bay Ladies led out from the start and although University Ladies moved up midway through the race the heavier Wide Bay crew had little difficulty in defeating the much lighter University crew by two lengths. 

The winning Wide Bay Ladies were Misses H. Wenk (B) V. Haapakoski (2) B. Window (3) N. Watson (S) Mr. K. Cordie (Cox) and Mr. J. Mansfield (Coach). 

The Champion Four of Queensland over 2000 metres was held at Rockhampton on April 2, 1960 and was a test race for crews wishing to compete in the Olympic Trials at Lake Wendouree on April 16. There were four entries - Rockhampton District, Bundaberg R.C., TH&CRC and Brisbane District (U.Q.B.C.). Tweed Heads quickly opened up a lead of more than a length and with 800 metres to go had 1 l /2 lengths on Rockhampton and a further half length to Brisbane. Rockhampton then began to tire and Brisbane moved into second place, and then lifted their rating to move into the lead to win by 1 1/2 lengths with a further four lengths to Rockhampton and Bundaberg a bad fourth. 

The winning Brisbane District (University) crew was - J. Drewe (B) B. Palmer (2) P.B. Clarke (3) L. Andrews (S) and B. Egan (Cox).

The Champion Schoolboys' Four over 1 mile resulted in a row-over for the Bundaberg High School. 

The title holding Bundaberg High School crew was - B. Shepherd (B) I. Stubbins (2) R. Gray (3) C. McLellan (S) and G. Williams (Cox).

The Champion Four of the Fitzroy was won by Rockhampton District from Tweed Heads and Bundaberg. The Champion Lightweight Four of the Fitzroy was won by Leichhardt from a second Leichhardt crew. 

The G.P.S. Head of the River Regatta was rowed on Milton Reach on April 9, 1960. The First Eight over 2000 metres for the Head of the River was won by Brisbane Grammar School by 3/4 length to The Southport School and Church of England Grammar School. 

The winning crew was:- M.D. Bowmaker (B) L.C. Lavery (2) D.R. Thomas (3) J. Flutter (4) B. Summersgill (5) P.J. Clutterbuck (6) F.K. Truman (7) L.J. Warren (S) G.M. Adsett (Cox) and N. Hirst (Coach).

The First Four over 3/4 mile was won by B.B.C. from B.S.H.S. and B.G.S.. 

The Second Four was won by B.B.C from B.G.S. with C.E.G.S. and T.S.S. in a dead heat for third place. The Third Four over 1/2 mile was won by B.G.S. from B.B.C. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Fourth Four was won by B.B.C. from C.E.G.S. and B.G.S. in a dead heat for second place. 

The Fifth Four was won by B.B.C. from B.G.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

The Sixth Four was won by B.G.S. from C.E.G.S. and B.G.S.. 

The Seventh Four was won by C.E.G.S. and B.G.S. who dead heated for first place, followed by B.B.C.. The Eighth Four was won by B.G.S. from B.G.S. and C.E.G.S.. 

University provided the four with cox and pair with cox crews for the Olympic test races at Lake Wendouree on April 16, 1960. The races were held in deplorable conditions, with intense cold and a 30 m.p.h. side wind. The four was eliminated in the heats; the pair reached the final through the repechage, but was unsuccessful. The crews were:-

Four - J. Drewe (B), P. Apel (2), P.B. Clarke (3) L. Andrews (S) and B. Egan (Cox) 

Pair - I. Mayes (B) and J. Ireland (S) 

The Australian Rowing Team for the Olympic Games in Rome was as follows:­

Single Sculls - S. MacKenzie - from New South Wales 

Eight with Cox - from Western Australia 

M. Francis (B), G. Hale (2), J. Ledder (3), A. Cunningham (4), M. Gamble (5), B. Durston (6), R. Ninham (7), J. Rosser (S), T. Scook (Cox), K. Grant (Coach)

Pair without Cox - from Victoria 

J. Hunt (B) and T. Davies (S)

Four with Cox - from New South Wales

R. Waddington (B), M. Annett (2), G. Allen (3), J. Hudson (S), L. Robberds (Cox) 

Pair with Cox - from Victoria

Paul Guest (B), W. Howell (S), I. Johnston (Cox)

Double Sculls - from New South Wales

I. Tutty (B) and K. Webb (S)

Four without Cox - from Victoria

B. Vear (B), Peter Guest (2), P. Gillon (3), J. Jelbart (S)

Manager - R.G. Blundstone

New boats and equipment for each crew had been provided by sponsors and friends of oarsmen throughout Australia and had been shipped to Rome. 

The Ladies' Championship Four-oar of Australia over 1000 metres for the U.L.V.A.Trophy was rowed on the Town Reach in Brisbane on April 23, 1960. New South Wales held off the fast finishing Queensland with Victoria third. The finish was one of the closest in a Ladies' National title since the war, the margins being three quarters of a length and three quarters of a length. 

The Queensland Ladies, all from Maryborough, were Misses H. Wenk (B), V. Haapakoski (2), B. Window (3), N. Watson (S), Mr. K. Cordie (Cox) and Mr J. Mansfield (Coach).

At the A.A.R.C. annual meeting it was resolved that the King's Cup and the President's Cup be permanently reduced to 2000 metres, and with the Penrith Cup already 2000 metres, all men's Interstate Championships would now be 2000 metres. 

The A.A.R.C. published membership figures for all States as at 30/6/60 which showed Queensland well at the bottom of the list. 

Commercial R.C. won the 1959/60 Premiership with 102 points to Bundaberg on 64 points. 

At the 1960 A.G.M. R. Lyndon, R. Clemence and C.C. Malouf were elected as Honorary Life Members. The office bearers remained unchanged. 

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