Established in the year 1909, the inception of Mildura Rowing Club marks the beginning of a storied journey. The inaugural official meeting convened on August 23rd, 1909, with Dr. Parker assuming the mantle of the first Club President. The club embarked on its rowing endeavors with a modest fleet including 2 x fours, 2 pairs, and a 'pleasure' boat, while setting the first subscription fee at one pound.

The outbreak of World War I saw 37 out of 40 members enlisting for service, leading to a four-year hiatus for the club. Tragically, one of the enlisted members, A.J. Robinson, lost his life. The club commemorated his memory by naming its first boat after him. In 1918, a flood swept away the original boatshed, yet the fleet remained preserved.

By 1925, the inaugural Mildura Regatta took place, setting the stage for a tradition that would flourish. The 1940s witnessed the Mildura Rowing Regatta evolving into a celebrated community affair, fostering a sense of unity.

The outbreak of World War II in 1939 saw history repeating itself, with a significant portion of the club's membership once again enlisting for service. Amid the tumult, six members held the fort, safeguarding club assets and the fleet. The club eventually reopened its doors in 1944, ushering in a vibrant resurgence characterized by renewed interest and fervent activity.

A full history of Mildura Rowing Club has been documented and is available for purchase. The official history was only completed in 2008 following significant research by Leonie Murphy.

EVENTS IN OUR CLUB HISTORY

FORMED AUGUST 23, 1909

1ST PRESIDENT - DR. PARKER

IN 1914, 37 OF THE CLUB'S 40 MEMBERS ENLISTED FOR SERVICE IN WORLD WAR 1.

1918 - FLOOD WASHED ORIGINAL BOATHOUSE AWAY

1923 - CLUB 'RESUSCITATED' FOLLOWING LAPSE.

1925 - FIRST MILDURA 'HENLEY ON THE MURRAY' REGATTA HELD ON EASTER MONDAY.

Club Presidents

• 2023 to Present - Sam Lowe
• 2019 to 2023 Kevin Tankard
• 2015 to 2019 - Nigel Sullivan
• 2013 to 2014 - David Talbot
• 2010 to 2012 - David Carson
• 2009 to 2010 - Terry Hill
• 2008 to 2009 - Rob Ellis
• 2007 to 2008 - Warren Lloyd
• 2005 to 2007 - Cynthia Toose
• 2004 to 2005 - Paul Hodgson
• 2001 to 2004 - David Talbot
• 1999 to 2001 - Terry Hill
• 1996 to 1999 - Bernie Currow
• 1995 to 1996 - David McKendrick
• 1994 to 1995 - Barry Kilpatrick
• 1992 to 1994 - Joe Watson
• Unknown
• 1980 to 1982 - Barry Kilpatrick
• 1978 to 1980 - David Tankard
• 1974 to 1978 - Barry Kilpatrick
• 1971 to 1974 - Keith Gilbert
• 1968 to 1971 - Don MacKay
• 1966 to 1968 - Geoff Talbot
• 1965 to 1966 - Clem Sauer
• 1963 to 1965 - John Suffren
• 1951 to 1963 - Bert Mills
• 1949 to 1951 - W Mills
• 1947 to 1949 - Syn Nash
• 1935 to 1947 - C H Harrison
• 1930 to 1935 - V W Adair
• 1927 to 1930 - Dr MacMillan
• 1923 to 1927 Dr W H Godby