Dear members,

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the proposed ‘One Team’ approach for VIC26.

Your feedback has not only affirmed the direction we are heading but also raised important questions about how this approach will work during VIC26 campaign. Please continue asking questions by emailing vicstateteam@dragonboatvictoria.com.au - we welcome them as part of the process.

As we work through the logistics raised by your feedback, we’re excited to share the following key information with you today.

The selection process for VIC26 team is underway and we would like to share the proposed dates around Expression of Interest (EOI), approach to Fitness Benchmarking and training.

We encourage everyone to consider expressing interest in joining the VIC26 team. Put aside any hesitation that may be holding you back - believe in your potential and take the leap!

Expression of Interest (EOI):

– Divisional Coaches: Open 11th -20th August 2025 and announced 25th August 2025

– Divisional Team Managers: Open 25th – 31st August 2025 and announced 5th September 2025

– Athletes: Open 25th August – 15th September 2025 and announced 21st October 2025

Fitness Benchmarking (FBM):

– The fitness benchmarking criteria will be released on August 18th 2025 with more specific information. Testing will take place on the weekend of October 11th-12th 2025 between 11:30am - 4:30pm and will occur at DBV Head Office, Footscray (40 Farnsworth Ave, Footscray).

– Four half-day training camps are scheduled from 11:30am to 4:30pm. Every effort will be made to avoid conflicts with club training. No additional camps are planned for divisions. Training camp locations to be confirmed once crew selections are finalised.

· Camp 1 – 16th November 2025

· Camp 2 – 13th December 2025

· Camp 3 – 7th February 2026

· Camp 4 – 22nd March 2026 (Boating Hub _ Docklands)

We are also pleased to share that DBV will absorb the cost of racing, helping to reduce some of the financial burden on athletes.

Got Questions? Here’s How to Connect with Us:

The VIC26 leadership team is here to support you, answer questions, and help you reach your goals.

You can connect with us through:

· VIC26 Email address: Please email vicstateteam@dragonboatvictoria.com.au

· Zoom Sessions: Reach out if you'd like to schedule a Zoom meeting.

· Officials Workshop (Aug 16, 2025): Kathryn Sanford will be available for discussions from 4:00 PM.

· Battle of Barwon (Aug 17, 2025): Kathryn Sanford will be there and happy to chat

· Future Vic Regattas: We welcome you to approach us for a conversation.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Kathryn Sanford and Gabriela Bodnarova