ACCA Dragon Boat Racing Team

We've been called one of Australia's Top Dragon Boat teams, a bunch of misfits, and a gang of bloody larrikins. But the truth is, we're a bit of each. Based in Pyrmont NSW (Eora Nation), ACCA Dragon Boat Racing Team (ACCA) was founded in 1984 by the Australian Chinese Community Association. But although we claim no official affiliation, we are now known - affectionately and unceremoniously - as the "Australian Charcoal Chicken Association" due to our fiendish love for the dirty bird. We're a bunch of competitive, diverse and crazy dragon boaters who have a whole lot of fun on and off the water. Our team culture and values of equality and inclusivity are unrivalled. We don't take ourselves too seriously, but we mean business when we compete. No one expects this bunch of misfits to win - they never do. We shouldn't work, but we thrive. And that's the best part - we succeed because we're ONE team. As our motto states: Fitter. Stronger. Together. Competing in monthly regattas and training up to five times a week amidst the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour (and the pungent undertones of the Sydney Fish Markets), our motley crew of dedicated paddlers boast a passion for the water that knows no bounds. Some of our members even travel up to a staggering 460 kilometres from Kempsey in regional NSW every week just to train with us. Talk about dedication! Currently in our 40th year of existence, ACCA folklore tells the story of adversity, hardship, declines in membership, and at times, half a women's crew, but we've always possessed grit and determination. We also faced the turbulent waves of COVID-19, which threatened to sink our beloved team, and we found ourselves in the daunting position of having to rebuild our club from the ground up. But over the past five years, despite all odds, ACCA have qualified for the World Dragon Boat Championships in Italy this September 2024.