Sweep Development

Dragon boat activity approved by Dragon Boats NSW (DBNSW) requires each dragon boat to have a steerer also known as a Sweep or Helm. Dragon Boat Sweeps must obtain AusDBF Sweep Accreditation prior to steering unsupervised.

To become a fully accredited sweep with the Australian Dragon Boat Federation (AusDBF), it is essential to follow the guidelines and requirements set out in the AusDBF National Sweep Accreditation Scheme (ANSAS). The scheme outlines a structured pathway for accreditation, which includes completing prerequisite eLearning modules, practical on-water assessments, and adhering to re-accreditation processes every three years.  For detailed information, including the updated Sweep Classification Levels and the process for reaccreditation, individuals should refer to the official documents provided by ANSAS.

DBNSW has appointed a number of Regional Sweep Coordinators - collectively known as the DBNSW Sweep Coordinator Group (SCG) - whose aim it is to enhance the safety and the proficiency of NSW Sweeps and support clubs to train up their sweeps to a high skill level.

General Overview 

• The minimum age for a sweep is 14 years.

• Accreditations are valid for 3 years or when your current First Aid Certificate expires, whichever comes first.

• Sweep accreditations are registered on revSPORT and Accreditations are shown on member profiles in RevSport.

• Sweeps must apply for re-accreditation by their expiry date to maintain accreditation.

First Aid

• Sweeps from Level 2 to 5 (L2 - L5) must have a current First Aid Certificate or equivalent. 

• CPR Refresher Training is no longer required annually (under ANSAS), however it must still be obtained every three (3) years as part of First Aid Training (re-certification). For technical reasons, Revsport will state your CPR Certification is expiring after one year, but this can be disregarded.

Working with Children Checks

• Sweeps over the age of 18 are to maintain current Working with Children Check at all times and an updated Working with Children Check provided within 2 months of expiry.

• Sweeps under the age of 18 do not require a Working with Children Check but are required to provide one within 2 months of their birthday.

Life Vests

The Sweep is responsible for ensuring any person unable to swim 50 metres or not paddling always wears a life vest at training sessions or regattas that they meet the minimum Maritime and Association requirements to the State or Territory they are in.

Accreditation Journey

Introductory Sweep Training

For athletes interested in the role of Sweeping a Dragon Boat, the journey begins with getting hands-on experience under the guidance of a Level 3 (or higher) sweep. This preliminary phase is crucial for understanding the fundamentals of steering and boat control. After accumulating an initial 3-10 hours practical experience on the water, aspiring sweeps can then embark on the formal path to accreditation.

The ANSAS pathway involves a series of online educational modules and courses designed to deepen the knowledge of the sport's rules, safety protocols, and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment. Upon completion of these courses, candidates are eligible to register as Level 1 Trainee Sweeps, marking the first official step towards becoming an Accredited Sweep. This structured approach ensures that sweeps are well-prepared to lead their teams safely and effectively on the water.

eLearning Courses:

1) ANSAS Sweep Accreditation eLearning course - https://ausdbfmoodle.com/moodle30/enrol/index.php?id=16

2) AusDBF Rules of Racing - Coaches & Sweeps - https://ausdbfmoodle.com/moodle30/enrol/index.php?id=20

3) Cultivating Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging for Dragon Boat Activities - https://ausdbfmoodle.com/moodle30/course/view.php?id=18                                

-> Don't forget to download your Sweep Log Book (and Competency Checklist) and start logging your hours.      

Level 1 Trainee Sweeps  

As a Level 1 Trainee Sweep, working closely with a supervising Level 3 (or higher) sweep is essential for skill development and proficiency on the water. After accumulating an additional 20 hours of practice and completing the Competency Checklist, it's now time to obtain your First Aid certification (including CPR) and Working With Children Check. Once these prerequisites are met, you can request an assessment to advance to Level 2. 

  Level 1 Trainee Sweeps Registration Form 

Level 2 Provisional Sweeps

Achieving Level 2 Sweep accreditation is a significant milestone in the journey of mastering dragon boat steering and control. This level of proficiency enables individuals to confidently guide club crews during training sessions and competitive races.

The progression to Level 3 Accreditation requires Level 2 Sweeps to successfully steer a minimum of six races across three regattas and is designed to expose sweeps to various conditions, race courses, and starting procedures, providing a comprehensive platform for assessment and feedback. This process is crucial for continuous development, improvement and assessment of sweeping abilities.

-> Make sure you log your races in your Sweep Log Book

-> Sweeps who do not wish to steer at regattas may remain as a Level 2 Provisional Sweep.

Level 2 Sweep Assessment Request 

Level 3 Accredited Sweep

Achieving Level 3 Sweep Accreditation is indeed a commendable achievement. It signifies a level of proficiency and commitment to Sweeping. As you move forward, it's essential to keep refining your skills. Whether it's through seeking advanced training, participating in Sweep Clinics, or simply dedicating time to practice, every effort you make contributes to your growth.

Remember, the journey of improvement is ongoing, and there's always something new to learn or a skill to enhance. Keep pushing your boundaries, and you'll find that you'll discover more about your capabilities and potential.

Documents

1. AusDBF National Sweep Accreditation Scheme (ANSAS).
2. Sweep Log Book (and Competency Checklist)
3. Sweep Classification Levels 
4. Sweep Guidelines
5. AusDBF Safety Handbook
6. DBNSW Sweep Handbook V6

DBNSW Sweep Coordinator Group (SCG)

Each of the four state regions has at least one sweep coordinator who is responsible for assessing and accrediting dragon boat sweeps. These regional coordinators can be contacted directly about sweep accreditation and other sweep related enquiries.