Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA) is the peak body for 33 breast cancer survivor paddling groups around the nation. Members adopt a set of common guiding principles and adhere to the philosophy of participation and inclusiveness.

The Pink Ladies that race in dragon boats are the very public face of Dragons Abreast Australia. To those who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer they are an inspiration and to the wider community, a demonstration of tenacity in not being cowered by the disease. Dragons Abreast Australia strives to promote awareness of breast cancer until such time as this insidious disease is beaten.

Dragons Abreast Australia members paddle to demonstrate there is quality of life despite a breast cancer diagnosis. By being part of the team members help each other regain that sense of wellness, self-confidence and control in their lives. Although physically demanding, being involved in a dragon boat creates a new state of awareness. It is exhilarating and lots of fun. It promotes teamwork and at the same time helps overcome the isolation that a diagnosis of breast cancer can often bring. It gives participants a deep sense of pride in their accomplishments as they feel themselves become fitter and stronger with the passing weeks.

Members also paddle in memory of friends who have lost their competition with breast cancer, to ensure that their struggle is remembered and honoured.

Whilst members compete in dragon boat regattas, their race is against breast cancer. The very presence of the Dragons Abreast Dragon Boat teams gives a “face” to the breast cancer statistics and in so doing actively promotes breast cancer awareness in the wider community.

Whilst not intended as a support group, friendships made in Dragons Abreast Australia provide a unique support network at a grass roots level for people with breast cancer.

Members come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. Many haven’t done any sport since leaving school. What they share is that they are all living with breast cancer. Sporting prowess is not a criteria for participation – all newcomers are welcome

If you would like to know more about how you can get involved in paddling with this unique team visit their website at http://www.dragonsabreast.com.au or call 1300 889 566.

A Dragon’s Tale

- An inspirational tale of courage, laughter, strength and friendship by women with breast cancer

It is almost 10 years since the Great Dragon breathed her fire on a few passionate women who were destined to take her message of hope and inspiration to Australian women who had experienced breast cancer.

The first dragon boat team for breast cancer survivors was formed in 1998 in Darwin by Michelle Hanton, now National Coordinator of Dragons Abreast Australia. They were followed by Australia’s second Territory, Canberra, and this group was led by Anna Wellings Booth. Michelle and Anna collaborated, planned, dreamed and encouraged Janelle Gamble, current Board Director of DAA, to start a group in Brisbane and from those initial three women,

the Great Dragon took flight across the length and breadth of Australia.

A Dragon’s Tale is a graphic example of the journey the Great Dragon has led them over the past years. There are stories from member groups across Australia, of laughter, friendship, courage, sadness and throughout a wonderful sense of purpose and togetherness as the pink dragons gain support from one another on life’s journey.

A Dragon’s Tale will inspire you, make you laugh, perhaps shed a tear for those who have moved on to our Angel’s Abreast team and give hope and strength to newly diagnosed women.

RRP $35 for this beautiful 152 page full colour publication.

For more information please visit www.dragonsabreast.com.au. To order a copy of A Dragon's Tale please click here