Five of the club’s young athletes attended the events with four of them competing for the first time.

Aimee Gardner, Savana Purss, Madeline Dobson, Dan Bielich and Jeremy Campbell (in his second year) had a tremendous weekend, obtaining two firsts, eight second placings and four thirds.

Bielech enjoyed a memorable start to his first regatta (Endeavour) by taking out first place on Saturday in the men’s D grade single scull and bringing home a medal.

Campbell also won his event on Sunday (Hunter Valley Grammar Regatta), securing the under 16’s single scull event for the second year in a row.

The junior squad members rowed in individual single sculls and teamed up for doubles and quads.

Their coaches, Bob Mowlem and Alan McCartney, were extremely pleased with the youngsters’ entry into the competition arena.

Assistance was provided by Tim Morgan, Geoff Kempnich, Terry and Carolyn Campbell, Pauline Roods, McCartney and Mowlem, who had travelled to Newcastle specifically to help the juniors with their boats, riggings etc.

Mowlem and Morgan worked at the regattas in official duties on behalf of the Port Macquarie Rowing Club.

Kim Chilton also competed on Saturday, taking out a first in her single scull event.

Chilton, along with Liz Levido, also snared a win in the women’s masters double scull.

Jim Young captured the men’s masters single scull.

Levido and Young teamed up to the take out the mixed double scull too.

Young again competed on Sunday in the men’s masters single scull.

His win in this event was extremely entertaining to spectators, as he slowed his pace to give a few “harsh words” to a speed boat driver, who had decided to travel through the centre of the race, sending waves over the competitors’ boats.

Once he finished his impromptu speech, Young picked up his speed and continued on to capture his race.

Port Macquarie Rowing Club is now looking forward to its own regatta, to be held at Telegraph Point (below the bridge) on Sunday.

This event begins at 8am and spectators are welcome to come and view the day’s activities.

There will be a barbecue and refreshment stand available.