RowdRite

Merry Christmas Everyone, From all of us at RowdRite.

Some close racing at the 2025 Head of the Outback! RowdRite is proud to be the Aqua and hydration sponsor again

Over the course of six days in October 2024, a convoy of rowers and spectators— starting with approximately 50 and growing to more than 200 strong—made the journey from Brisbane, Sydney, Western Australia, Tasmania, and Canberra (sorry if we missed anyone!) to the heart of outback Queensland: Barcaldine and Longreach.

Why, you ask? It’s simple: to promote social connection, mateship, and a sense of community—and to have a few laughs along the way.

Along the route, we made stops to highlight the local regions. There was a dinner in Rockhampton with a presentation on the history of the area, followed by a social row on the Fitzroy River the next morning.

Coming back in after the row on the Fitzroy river
In Emerald, we enjoyed another evening of dinner, laughter, and discussions about its role as the 'gateway to the outback' before taking a gentle row on Lake Maraboon (Fairbairn Dam)—no Red Claw caught, though!

At Alpha, we heard from the ICPA (Isolated Children and Parents Association) about the challenges families face when sending their kids to boarding school for education, and the isolation this can bring for children, siblings, and even the parents who remain behind.

The journey culminated in Barcaldine with time trials, the Duel, and The Gift at the Barcaldine Recreational Park, after a hearty breakfast and a discussion around the Tree of Knowledge in the town centre. Unfortunately, the 'State of Origin' race between Queensland, New South Wales, and 'All The Rest' had to be postponed due to the heat.

The first trophies were awarded at the Boots and Blazers Ball, hosted back in Longreach at the Drover's Place within the grounds of the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame.

And then came the big one. On Sunday, the Head of The Outback took place. Crews started at roughly 30-second intervals, with the slowest starting first, rowing 3.5km along the Thompson River before turning and racing the 3.5km back. Impressively, there was no carnage at the turning point, even as the faster crews caught up. Novice crews from Chinchilla, Cunnamulla, and Longreach, some rowing for just six weeks (and a few jumping back in a boat after years away), took on a shorter, 4km course with equal enthusiasm.

Getting ready to tackle the Head of the Outback
The final race—the postponed State of Origin—had crews randomly drawn and based on their state of birth. It came down to the final stroke, with 'All The Rest' narrowly beating New South Wales, followed by Queensland.

RowdRite Pty Ltd was proud to once again be the hydration sponsor, working with Outback Rowing Australia to bring this fantastic event to life for its third year. The wholesome theme of the entire event—from the convoy from Brisbane's boat sheds, the trailer convoy from Sydney, to the camaraderie built along the way—was incredible.

The outback opened its arms to the ‘city folk,’ and hopefully, they’ll be inspired to return, exploring the rich history this region has to offer. More importantly, they’ll help spread the word and grow this event, so future generations can experience the physical and mental wellness that comes with rowing and the bonds forged in a boat.

At RowdRite, we’re excited to see how this event grows, with talk of the Bush Boats program in remote schools, giving kids heading to boarding school the chance to discover the mental well-being that comes from being part of a rowing shed. There’s nothing like community, and rowing is one of the best. Whether you’re part of a club you visit every day or a club you drop in on during a holiday, the shared experience—the blisters, the pain, and the friendships—is universal.

We hope you’ll come and see the outback for yourself—hopefully in a boat next year, but even if it’s just to explore the wonders of the region, that’s reason enough.

Outback Rowing Australia Rowing Queensland Rowing Australia Rowing Victoria Rowing NSW Rowing WA Rowing South Australia Tasmania Inc

Outback Regatta 2024 (3rd edition) has kicked of in style with the convoy dinner at the Red Lion in Rockhampton.

Rowing Queensland Rowing Australia Outback Rowing Australia

The 2024 Head of The Outback convoy and regatta launch has happened, great work raising awareness for wellness in the bush, and some innovative programs coming in the future.

RowdRite is proud to be the 'Hydration' Sponsor again this year.

Another glorious day in the scenic rim at wyaralong dam for the master state championships

All set for another day at the 2024 Qld State Championships if you are here come visit, and grab some gear! Say hi to our friends from WexWerx safety lights next door.

Rowing Queensland