Port Adelaide Rowing Club

Congratulations to our very own Kati Ritchie on being named Rowing SA's Volunteer of the Year. This award recognises a volunteer who has made a significant contribution to the success of Rowing SA events, going above and beyond the call of duty. Thanks Kati for all your tireless umpiring; from PARC's experience, your smiley face and clear instructions on the water at regattas has helped keep crews calm.

Rowing South Australia

Thanks to all who joined us for our Annual Dinner at Sweet Amber in Semaphore.

Much thanks and appreciation was given especially to Coach Ryan as he prepares to move overseas, and to President Jeremy who has moved to Melbourne. Two club awards were announced last night. (The rest will be presented at the AGM on Sunday 19th July - members check your email for details).

A great evening had by all.

The Accolade was a regular sight from our boathouse for so many years

A Saturday of crews and coaching.

Around Torrens Island Long Row #1
We were joined by Riverside RC, Goolwa RC, Port Pirie RC, Wellington NZ RC and Mayor Claire Boan for an enjoyable 18km tour of the ship wrecks, estuary and inner harbour with dolphins!

Followed by scrumptious brunch, celebratory drinks and good cheer.

Thanks to our wonderful volunteer organisers, drivers, cooks, bottle washers.

Next long row date is July 11 on the dodge tide

Port Adelaide Rowing Club welcomes you to join us for our suite of long rows around Torrens Island in 2026. Rowing through mangroves, ship graveyards, the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary, and of course the only Dolphin Sanctuary in the world in an urban area! Full details on our website.

Rowing South Australia
Rowing Australia

Morning tea in style after fielding three boats on the water. And when you go up a Masters Category there's all the more need to celebrate! Happy Birthday to our beloved Annabel!

As we head into the Easter weekend consider this Mildura Wentworth regattas preparation in 1947!

Travelling to Mildura and Wentworth Easter Regattas 1947 in Bob Coveney's single seat Vauxhall. Reg Francis in hat and long coat, Bob Coveney loading trailer, Charlie Davis in car. Frank Skuce, Arthur Smithson and Derek Swan loading their luggage. The three travelled in the car and three travelled in the Dickie seat out in al the weather. This photo was taken outside the old club in Jenkins Street. 'Must have been keen in those days also when they arrived at Mildura their accommodation was in the Pavilion in the showgrounds with straw-filled mattresses on an old army bed'.

From the Port Adelaide Rowing Club Collection

Mildura Rowing Club
Wentworth District Rowing Club

Valé Steve Pennington, you are missed.

Vale Steve Pennington

It is with great sadness that Rowing South Australia acknowledges the passing of Steve Pennington.

Steve was an incredibly valued and respected member of the rowing community, both in South Australia and nationally. His involvement in the sport spanned decades and across all facets — as an athlete, coach, administrator, Board member and highly regarded Boat Race Official.

Most recently recognised as the 2025 SA Boat Race Official of the Year, Steve was admired for his calm, fair and professional approach. He was also deeply committed to supporting others, generously giving his time to mentor and guide new officials, leaving a lasting impact on the rowing community.

Steve’s contribution to rowing in South Australia has been immense, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and work alongside him.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Anne and the Pennington family at this difficult time.

Funeral Details
Family and friends are invited to attend Steve’s Celebration of Life:
Berry’s Funeral Home, 204 Magill Road, Norwood (Entry via Prosser Avenue)
Thursday 9 April 2026
Service commencing at 1:00pm (livestream available from 12:45pm)
https://www.berryfunerals.com.au/live-streaming/client?nid=9bb70cf4-c300-4172-a894-50c5bb4e5824

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Steve’s memory to Cancer Council Australia:
https://www.cancercouncilfundraising.com.au/give/donate

Steve’s legacy within our sport will not be forgotten.