On Saturday 15 October 2022, members and friends of Brisbane River Dragons, Dragon Boat and Outrigger Canoe Club (BRD) gathered at the Colmslie boat ramp to officially welcome and launch the newest addition to the BRD fleet, a brand-new IRB (Safety Boat).

This purchase was possible due to funds provided by two significant contributors.

We thank the Australian Government for $20,000 awarded via Round 7 of the Stronger Communities Program (SCP). The SCP provides grants to community organisations and local governments for small capital projects that deliver social benefits for local communities. We are grateful to have been selected as a recipient within the Griffith Federal electorate and to have been one of over 12,000 community–based projects across Australia to receive assistance.

In February 2020, BRD’s then President, Peter “Snappa” Knight suffered a serious medical episode during a training session and sadly was not able to be revived. “Snappa” was a much-loved member and friend at BRD. In recognition of his love for the club his children made a significant donation to the club which we have used as the primary contribution to the new IRB.

At the launch, BRD members were joined by members of “Snappa’s” immediate and extended family who were pleased to name the boat in his honour – Knight Rider – and to dedicate it to his memory.

The new boat will support BRD activities by providing enhanced safety during long distance and rough water training/competition and to support our paddlers at regattas.

With the help of Mike and team at RibForce Inflatables at Coomera we have been able to build this boat to meet the needs and activities of BRD in both the Dragon Boat and Outrigger spaces.  

It has capacity to take double the passengers we could previously manage and has been configured specifically to cater for an injured or sick paddler should the need arise. It will serve the club well for many years into the future.

Following the naming, “Snappa’s” family joined us for the official launch and inaugural trip down the Brisbane River.

Keep an eye out for the distinctive red Knight Rider on the river and at races and give a wave and a nod to “Snappa”.