Griffins Committee

President - Amanda Wright

"I started Dragon Boating in 2019 with my daughter. I was searching for a new sport to try. It didn’t take long for me to realise that I had found not only an amazing sport but also an equally amazing club.

Joining the Canberra Griffins was a no-brainer — it was the place where I felt welcome, encouraged, and supported right from the start. I love being able to pass that feeling on by welcoming new paddlers and sharing what I love about Dragon Boating with them.

Travelling for regattas is a highlight for me. They’re always packed with fun & laughs with the Griffins. But I also love to race hard and there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of race day!"

Vice President - Leah Platts

Secretary - Caroline Oshyer

"I came to dragon boating for fitness, but found a whole lot more.  The Griffins are a diverse family who welcomed me from day one.  No matter your age or ability I found there is always a place on the boat for everyone.

I love the friendships, being challenged at each training session, working and improving as a team.  Highlights include the thrill of regattas, travelling as a team, and watching the changing seasons from the water."

Treasurer - Martin Squire

"I've been with the Canberra Griffins since 2012 having been introduced into the sport through participation in a corporate regatta.

Dragon boating for me is a very cathartic form of exercise, you can't think about work and paddle at the same time and I often feel physically exhausted but mentally refreshed after a training session.

Dragon boating delivers fitness, fun and a degree of fanaticism.  

The Griffins have always been a very friendly, welcoming and accommodating club. It's my second family."

Head Coach - Michelle Delfos

"After first trying Dragon Boating as a kid in Geraldton, W.A., I returned to the sport in Melbourne, in 2021 after switching from hockey—realising that summer sports were where it’s at—and I haven’t looked back since. 

Dragon Boating has given me the chance to compete at State level for both Victoria and the ACT, represent Australia at the Club Crew World Championships in Italy, and enjoy racing adventures in unique locations such as Taiwan and Kununurra.

I’ve found my Canberra community in the Griffins, where connection and inclusivity come first. From the very start, I felt warmly welcomed and part of the team. I’m now excited to step into a new role, leading the coaching team for the 2025/2026 season!"

Membership - Chris Huber

"Istarted dragon boating in February 2022. I’d seen it before, many moons ago, and always thought it looked so hard, just paddling on one side. The Griffins appeared to be having a blast in their warm-ups, and that’s how I found my way to this crew of excellent souls. I can’t believe I’ve found a team sport that I totally love. It is hard (and we do change sides!), but it’s also great fun, and everyone has a role to play on the boat. 

I’m glad to be helping out on the committee to support our club and our sport. It’s a joy to welcome new paddlers to the dragon boating community."

Safety Officer - Nikhil Clementi

Grants Officer - Mel Gowty

Volunteer Officer - Jo Vanzella

Fundraising Officer - Kym Holden

Uniform  Officer - Liz Drew

Social Media  - Maya Wright

Young paddler Rep