Marion Blake Canberra

On 12 May 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Clare Holland House, our beloved Marion Blake passed away peacefully after her courageous journey with metastatic breast cancer. Just days earlier, we were privileged to paddle past in salute, sending Marion our love in the way she cherished most—together, on the water.

Marion’s impact on Dragons Abreast in Canberra and across Australia is immeasurable. Her tenacity, leadership, and generosity were matched only by her kindness. As a paddler, sweep, coordinator, and Board member of Dragons Abreast Australia, Marion gave her whole heart to the cause. She organised the annual Canberra Social and Corporate Regattas, and with her special group of friends, created beautiful quilts that became treasured raffle prizes for our regattas and for Clare Holland House.

But Marion was more than her achievements. She was a funny and adventurous soul whose joie de vivre shone through every challenge. She was a mentor and a friend, a woman of wisdom and diplomacy who built bridges and encouraged camaraderie wherever she went. Marion’s inclusive spirit expanded our world and strengthened our community.

Marion will be remembered as a powerhouse and an inspiration—someone who showed us how to live fully, laugh often, and lead with heart. Though she has left the boat, her spirit will forever paddle alongside us.