Celebrating Remarkable Dedication to Rowing

Published Thu 02 Nov 2023

Rowing Queensland relies significantly on volunteers; our club systems, committees, coaches, selectors, rowing support groups, boat racing officials, Board of Directors, maintenance and regatta support teams, photographers and social media contributors, are all volunteers. Their collective dedication ensures our rowing community functions seamlessly. In the words of one of our volunteers: "our love for rowing transcends the water, infusing our community with inclusivity, respect, and enthusiasm".

We are fortunate to have a multitude of remarkable volunteers, each deserving recognition. Some offer small but impactful contributions, while others dedicate hundreds of hours for equally vital tasks. Every minute dedicated to this sport deserves appreciation and acknowledgment.

For Bob & Wendy Alexander we recognise their unparalleled contributions to the sport and are so proud to see them announced as finalists for the 2023 Hancock Prospecting Volunteer of the Year Award.

Bob has an extensive rowing history including being selected to compete for Queensland in 1965. He represented Queensland at national level in the prestigious Kings Cup Eights event in 1966,67,70,72,73,74 and 1980, along with competing in the Single Scull for Queensland in 1975,76,77, 78 and 1979. In 1975 he was Australian Champion in the event, and represented Australia in the same at the 1975 World Championships.

Equally passionate, Wendy embraced rowing during her time at teachers college in Victoria, then went onto represent Australia twice in 1975 and 1978, demonstrating her unwavering commitment and talent.

Beyond their individual achievements, Bob and Wendy have generously dedicated decades to volunteering and coaching, shaping the future of rowing. Wendy, a respected Boat Race Official, has served on various rowing boards and each Tuesday contributes each at the Queensland State Rowing Centre. Bob, a coaching stalwart and RQ's Regatta Secretary since 1986, guided the sport through transformative changes and challenges.

Throughout their 4 decades of volunteering, Bob and Wendy's profound impact has nurtured a harmonious atmosphere that unites our rowing family. Their quiet yet powerful influence, unyielding commitment, and ability to inspire make them genuine champions and invaluable assets to the Queensland rowing community. We congratulate both of you for being announced as a finalist in this years Awards. As stated by Nick Parr: "You are the power couple of Queensland rowing. Our sport would not be the same without these two selfless individuals".

Celebrating Remarkable Dedication to Rowing

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