Illawarra Dragons

Dragons Abreast Illawarra is a vibrant and supportive group of breast cancer survivors, their families and friends, brought together through the empowering and exciting team sport of dragon boating.

Formed in 2002 after a group of breast cancer survivors were introduced to dragon boating at the inaugural Shellharbour Festival of Sport, we have been paddling with a purpose ever since. We grew up in 2009 when we became an Incorporated Association.
Our Motto is ‘Friendship, Fitness & Fun’. Our group is all about health, wellbeing and friendship following a breast cancer diagnosis. Our members come in all shapes, sizes, ages and fitness levels.

Some members enjoy paddling recreationally, others like to compete. Many of our members have paddled with composite Dragons Abreast Australia teams at regattas all over the world.

We’d love to meet you at one of our training sessions. You can join for no-obligation ONE-MONTH free by signing up to a Dragon Pass through our sports club – Illawarra Dragon Boat Club website – https://www.idbc.org.au/new-paddlers/dragon-pass or call us to find out more.
We have a designated 1-hour Pink Paddle on the 1st Saturday of each month to celebrate our breast cancer survivors, their friends and supporters, followed by a delicious morning tea.
A great team sport that offers ample opportunities to experience the world on a variety of waterways!

Off the Water:
We participate in a wide range of local community events and fundraisers including Morning Teas & Luncheons, Monthly Social Paddler’s Dinners, Community walks, Bunnings BBQs and more.
We have supported causes such as Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, Relay for Life, the Pink Bun Campaign and International Women’s Day.

We have also been recognised with Awards:
Healthy Cities Award (2005)
Rise & Shine Environmental Award (2023)
Kiama Ultra Marathon Fundraiser (2025)