The Sunshine Coast was alive with colour, energy and the sound of drums as more than 70 teams from across Australia and New Zealand descended on Lake Kawana for the Australian Dragon Boat Championships — and the SCDA Mavericks made the most of their home water advantage.

Racing across four action-packed days, the Mavericks delivered standout performances in the Breast Cancer Survivor category, finishing 5th in the 200m Grand Final and 5th in the 500m events, and a valiant effort in the Womens Senior A category. Despite challenging conditions on the final day, the team dug deep and “left nothing on the lake,” showcasing the grit and determination that defines the club.

But beyond the results, it was the story behind the crew that truly stood out.

With paddlers ranging from newcomers with just two months’ experience to seasoned athletes of more than 20 years, the team embodied the spirit of dragon boating — unity, resilience and working as one.

“This was about so much more than racing,” said Club President Tara Knobel. “It was a whole team effort — on and off the water — and something we can all be incredibly proud of.”

The championships also marked the debut of the club’s new uniforms, which turned heads across the regatta and symbolise a new era for the growing Sunshine Coast club.