Members of the Dragons Abreast Gippsland Waratahs Dragonboat Club are preparing to represent Australia on the international stage when they travel to France later this month to compete in the 2026 International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Participatory Dragon Boat Festival.
Held in the picturesque lakeside town of Aix-les-Bains from August 24–30, the festival is the world’s largest gathering of breast cancer dragon boat teams, bringing together more than 4500 participants from roughly 25 countries. More than just a regatta, the event celebrates courage, resilience, friendship, and life after a breast cancer diagnosis.
For the members of Dragons Abreast Gippsland Waratahs, the journey to France represents years of dedication both on and off the water. Regular training sessions, tireless fundraising, and unwavering support from family, friends, and the local community have helped make the once-in-a-lifetime trip a reality.
Dragon boating has long been recognised for its physical, mental and social benefits for people who have experienced breast cancer. The sport promotes strength, confidence and well-being while fostering lifelong friendships among teammates who share similar experiences. The IBCPC festival embodies these values, emphasising participation, inclusion and the celebration of survivorship over simply the pursuit of medals.
Based in Bairnsdale, Dragons Abreast Gippsland is a Dragons Abreast club that welcomes people of all ages and abilities. While some members compete at state, national and international events, the club’s greatest strength lies in its supportive environment, where everyone is encouraged to paddle, connect and enjoy being part of a team.
In France, the Gippsland paddlers will join one of six teams representing Dragons Abreast Australia. The trip offers a unique opportunity to paddle alongside survivors from across the globe, exchange stories and form friendships that transcend borders. The festival schedule also features the vibrant Parade of Nations and a week of cultural and social activities, highlighting the global community united through dragon boating.
For the Gippsland paddlers, wearing the green and gold is a source of immense pride, showcasing not only their sporting commitment but also their resilience, determination and positive spirit.
As they prepare to launch onto the waters of Lake Bourget beneath the backdrop of the French Alps, the Dragons Abreast Gippsland team will carry with them the encouragement of their club, their families and the wider Gippsland community.
Whether crossing the finish line first or simply sharing the experience with fellow survivors from around the world, the team’s greatest achievement will be demonstrating the strength that comes from paddling together.
