Frequently Asked Questions
Now we know that we are not going to have all the answers - so if you have a question that we have not answered here - please contact us at capitallakes@gmail.com
When joining as a new member; what do you consider an "Experienced Rower"?
To join as a new member, you must have experience as a rower or coxswain with the sport of rowing in a shell with sliding seats. Your experience need not necessarily be extensive or recent and you don't need to be highly skilled. Most importantly, you do need to know "how to row"; knowledge of procedures, nomenclature, commands and technique. You should also be in good physical condition and able to lift and carry 10 kilograms over your head. If you join as an experienced rower and our Boat Captain determines that your experience is not adequate, we will suggest that you join our Learn To Row Program.
What is the age requirement to join?
CLRC welcomes rowers from high school through to more 'mature' rowers. To join as an Experienced Member or to participate in our annual Learn-to-Row Programs, you must be a high school student or older. You should also be in good physical condition and able to lift and carry 10 kilograms over your head
What the difference between sweep rowing and sculling?
Sculling is rowing with two oars - one in each hand, whilst sweep rowing is with only one oar. CLRC row both sweep and scull - but we focus on and instruct in sculling.
What sort of boats do you have in your Boathouse?
We have singles, doubles, pairs, quads, coxed quads, eights, an octo and yoles in our shed as well as modified boats suitable for para-rowers.
Can I store my private boat at the Boathouse?
Maybe. Please email the Boat Captain at capitallakes@gmail.com and make an enquiry. We can advise if there is room in the Boathouse and what the annual fee is and provide you with the policy on private boat storage.
Our fees are all explained in our membership area..
Juniors are all registered as competitive rowers with an annual fee of $700 which provides club membership, ACT Registration and entry into all Canberra-based regattas.
Masters can register as either competitive or non-competitive members. Competitive members pay $650 per year for club membership, ACT registration and entry into all Canberra-based Regattas. Non-competitive Masters pay $550 per year. There are also family memberships available.
Learn to row courses are run over 6 weeks in 2-hour sessions and cost $250.
Parking is available at the Boathouse. Entry to the carpark is from Menindee Drive in Barton - look for the signs to Grevillea Park. Be safe when you walk in the dark to the boathouse for your morning row. Walk with others and carry a light.
Out Boathouse is located at Grevillea Park, Menindee Street in Barton - just up from the Boathouse Restaurant.
Lake Burley Griffin is approximately 11 kilometres long from the Capital Lakes Boathouse to the dam near Government House in Yarralumla.
Why are there orange buckets on the dock?
It keeps the birds off and helps to keep the dock clean. Actually, it's not the buckets that keep them off; it's the line between the buckets that keeps them away. They are afraid to cross over the line. It only works if everyone remembers to replace the buckets after they get off the lake. If you are the last boat off the lake, replace the orange buckets to keep the birds off. It really does work.
How many ergs in the boathouse?
There are currently 8 ergs in the boathouse. Some would say this is 8 too many.
May I use the rowing facilities at the boathouse on my own?
No - not without a clearance from the Boat Captain. Contact him via email capitallakes@gmail.com to arrange a time to talk. Once approved you will be provided with Boathouse entry procedures - but you must sign in an out whenever you are at the Boathouse alone. Please note that there is a 4 oars policy at the club... that is a minimum of 4 oars must be out at any one time.
Junior rowers are not permitted to row at anytime without supervision.
When choosing your rowing clothes, stay away from loose items. Baggy items can become caught in the boat’s equipment, and you may find that your range of motion is restricted by loose material. Avoid items made with cotton, since these will become heavy as (if) they get wet. Wear a snug T-shirt made of synthetic top made of lycra or something similar. Opt for either long or short sleeves, depending on the weather. Add a close-fitting waterproof jacket on top to keep you dry and warm. On extra chilly days, wear a fleece sweatshirt or jacket under your windbreaker. We also have club poogies available for sale to keep you warm in those chilly winter months.
Form-fitting fabric is just as important on your lower half as your top half, since baggy pants can become tangled in your sliding seat as you row. Wear stretchy bike shorts on hot days, or pull on some yoga pants or runner’s leggings for colder days. You might also layer a pair of shorts or fleece pants to give your rear end some warmth and padding. Never wear jeans to row, as they won’t allow you to move freely and they’ll get soggy and heavy when wet.
Wear socks for hygiene reasons as we have a combination of closed shoes as well as clogs in the boats. Shoes such as Crocs, slip ons or easily removed runners for moving between the Boathouse and the dock are recommended.
Always be prepared for the weather and ensure that you are using an appropriate sunblock and have a hat and water.
Are there toilets available for our use at the boathouse?
Yes, and showers. We also have facilities for our para-rowers as well.
What should I do if I can't make a rowing session?
If you are booked into a coached session and can't make it please let you coach know as soon as possible. If you have arranged to row with another crew, make sure that they are aware - or find an appropriate substitute. If you are attending social rowing - then there is no need to advise the Club if you can not make that session.
What should I do if I want to row, but the rowing session is full?
You may show up for the rowing session and take your chances as an "extra". You may be needed to fill out a boat. There is no issue for soical rowing - just show up!
How are rowers assigned to boats? Does one row with the same crew all the time?
Depending on who shows up you probably will row with those of the same gender and skill. Sometimes, however, the coach may have lineups with a mix of gender and skill. If you are training to compete in local regattas you will be assigned to a crew and expected to train with that crew for competition.
Masters are generally social rowers and make up crews on the morning. This is a great opportunity to row with and get to know a variety of different people.
Is it true that everyone has to take a turn as coxswain?
Yes - although we have members who may only cox, all members will occasionally be assigned as a coxswain by the coach. Everyone shares this coxing obligation. To avoid being surprised by a coxing assignment, sign up to cox and come prepared. Always have enough warm gear with you, in the event you are assigned as a cox - or be prepared to raid the lost property box.
Does the club race competitively? How do I get to compete?
Yes. The club is affiliated with Rowing ACT and competes annually in ACT based competitions as well as some interstate and national level events. All members are encouraged and eligible to participate - and all junior members are expected to compete. All members will be notified when race sign ups are available. Speak to the Boat Captain if you are interested in competing in the local regattas and you will be assigned to a training squad.
There is also the opportunity for our older rowers to participate in Masters events, both nationally and internationally.
Do not take your shoes in the boat. It helps to keep dirt out of the tracks and avoids unnecessary maintenance. Leave them on the dock when you get into the boat.
May I bring a water bottle in the boat?
Yes - it is strongly recommended - especially in Summer. But please protect the boat interior and do not drop your water bottle into the boat.
Does it help to be indefatigable in the boat?
Yes - but if you aren't we can work on that.
How do you fold a fitted sheet?
It's impossible. You can't.
