Julie Richardson Canberra

Dragons Abreast Canberra is very sad to announce the passing of Julie Richardson.

Julie joined Dragons Abreast Canberra as a supporter in 2007.  She loved paddling and enthusiastically supported our group in many ways over the years, helping out with regattas and fundraisers as well as taking on the role of club secretary for two terms. Her positive, ‘can do’ approach to living as well as her sense of fun made her a much loved and respected member of the whole Canberra dragon boat community.

After a couple of seasons with DA, Julie’s zest for life led her to taking on more paddling challenges, training with the newly formed Canberra Titans, a Senior B Women’s crew and competing with them at the Club Crew World Championships in Penang in 2008, before joining Dragon Flyers, (an ACT sports team) in 2009 and competing with them at the AusDBF National Championships in Kawana, (Queensland), Adelaide and Canberra.

After a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2012 and a short break, Julie returned to paddling, setting herself the challenge of regaining her fitness and completing the Ord River Marathon with DA Canberra in 2014 in the Northern Territory. 

When the disease returned, Julie remained positive and bravely kept us all informed by sharing her stories and adventures which culminated in a fantastic around the world trip with her two children, of whom she was so proud.

Julie’s friends joined her husband and family at a beautiful Celebration of Life ceremony for Julie by Lake Burley Griffin. Her paddling mates from Dragon Flyers, Dragons Abreast and other clubs were honoured to take part in a moving Flowers on the Water Ceremony. Farewell Julie. We will miss you.