Students, staff, alumni, and friends of QUT are invited to attend and compete in the iconic, annual QUT Dragon Boat Regatta at New Farm Park.

Dragon boating is one of the oldest sports in the world, originating in China over 2,000 years ago. A dragon boat is a long canoe (approximately 12m long) that holds up to 20 people seated in pairs, a drummer at the front to keep time, and a sweep who stands at the back and steers. For competition, the boat is rigged with a dragon head and tail. The sport has evolved to become one of the world’s most competitive and colourful.

Represent your club, faculty, or crew on the Brisbane River and shore: there are prizes to be won for best costume and war cry, as well as race placement, so let your team spirit shine at this active day of festivities! Short a few friends? Individual paddlers can still register to compete! You will either be in a team made up of other individuals or assigned to help fill an empty spot on a registered team.

Training sessions will be held throughout July, so if you’re new to the sport – never fear! You will have several opportunities to practice and learn from the Brisbane River Dragons Boat and Canoe club.

In addition to the on-water action, there will be a free community and family-friendly festival event held at New Farm Park (nearby The Powerhouse) with stage entertainment, food stalls, activities and workshops, a BBQ and Coffee van.

To register your attendance as a spectator, please go to the Eventbrite page. To compete, you must submit an Expression of Interest and register through the QUTPay registration page.

(If you are interested in partnerships, sponsorships, running a stall, or have any further questions about competing in the race, please reach out to [email protected])