Boats

Of course, rowing is all about boats and regattas and you may have some questions on how things are done at MRC. The Club Captain is responsible for all matters relating to boats and equipment.

Preparing boats for transport to and from regattas

It is compulsory for each member intending to compete at a regatta, to attend a boat maintenance session. These sessions are organised several times throughout the year. You can download the Boat Transport Notes or view the MRC Boat Rigging Policy.

Boat allocation policy

The Reg 4+'s and two tub 2+'s are available for use by booking them with the Club Captain via email, provided permission has been given to the crew for the particular boat's use. That is, permission for each session is not required, once the boat has been allocated. View the MRC Boat Allocation Policy.

  • Single sculls on the mobile unit are available by booking them with the Club Captain
  • Approval is required from the Club Captain prior to using any coxless boats
No changes should be made to the rigging of club boats without specific approval from the Club Captain

Oar policy

Most oars are allocated to a particular boat and are so marked on the oar shaft. If in doubt, consult the Club Captain.

Booking a boat for training

  1. Obtain permission to use a particular kind of boat
  2. Plan your training times (with your coach, if applicable) and confirm these with the Club Captain
  3. Keep the Club Captain informed of changes to times and status

Booking a boat for racing

  1. Obtain permission to use a particular kind of boat
  2. Plan your regatta schedule with the Club Captain
  3. Keep the Club Captain informed of changes to times and status

Boat Priority

MRC is a competitive club, therefore priority is given to:

  • Coached crews
  • Rowing Professional program participants
  • Crews with high potential in their rowing class
  • Competing crews

Where possible, boats are rigged for Mens and Womens crews to minimise rigging issues with weight differences.

Racing/Nomex boats are not normally allocated to recreational crews, uncoached crews, mixed crews or composite crews.

Coxless boats will only be allocated after the Club Captain is satisfied that the crew can safely steer the boat.

No changes should be made to the rigging of racing boats without the agreement of the Club Captain.

Getting permission to use a boat

Have a discussion with the Club Captain regarding your experience and training program. The Club Captain will advise which boat is suitable.

Procedure if something breaks or a breakage is discovered

Breakages and accidents happen from time to time. To minimise the amount of time to repair breakages, please notify the Club Captain and/or Vice Captain immediately.

It is also club policy to pass on the cost of the insurance excess to the member where equipment damage is determined to have arisen from negligent conduct. To ensure you are using MRC equipment safely, review the club's safety policy.

View the MRC Boat and Equipment Damage Policy.

Entry into boatsheds

MRC is very proud of it's boatshed, and we aim to keep access restricted to our members and tenants, for their privilege and security.

When you are a member, the security access code is disclosed to you. The code is required to enter the clubhouse upstairs.

Keys are required to open the shed door, at the rear of the shed, next to Richmond Rowing Club. You can obtain a key for a deposit of $50, by contacting our keys administrator.