Kogarah Bay Rowing Club has secured $2.5 million in NSW Government funding to expand its ageing facilities, enabling the 95-year-old club to increase participation and strengthen its youth development programs.

The grant, announced by the Minister for Sport at the clubhouse last week, will fund construction of a new boat shed, upgraded change facilities, and an expanded training area overlooking Kogarah Bay.

“This club has been part of the St George community for nearly a century,” said club president Margaret O’Brien. “This funding ensures we can serve the community for another hundred years.”

Project Scope

The expansion project includes:

New Boat Shed

• Capacity for 40 boats (up from current 24)
• Dedicated storage for adaptive rowing equipment
• Improved boat maintenance area
• Climate-controlled ergometer room

Training Facilities

• Extended pontoon for easier boat launching
• Coaching observation deck
• Video analysis room for technique improvement
• Covered stretching and warm-up area

Amenities

• Modern change rooms with accessible facilities
• Club room with bay views
• Commercial kitchen for events and functions
• Improved spectator viewing areas

Youth Focus

A significant portion of funding is earmarked for youth development initiatives.

The club currently runs a junior program with 45 participants aged 12-18, with strong demand exceeding available places. The expanded facilities will allow the program to grow to 80 juniors.

“We turn kids away every year because we don’t have the boats or the space,” said junior coordinator David Stavros. “These new facilities mean every interested young person can give rowing a try.”

The club has also committed to expanding its schools program, which introduces Year 7 students from local high schools to the sport.

Inclusive Rowing

Importantly, the project includes dedicated resources for adaptive rowing—the sport’s fastest-growing segment.

New accessible facilities will include:

• Pontoon modifications for wheelchair users
• Adaptive rowing boats and equipment
• Trained coaches for para-athletes
• Partnership with local disability organisations

“Rowing should be available to everyone,” said O’Brien. “The bay is flat water, perfect for adaptive athletes. We want to become a centre of excellence for inclusive rowing.”

Construction Timeline

Work is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with construction staged to allow continued club operations:

• March-June 2026: New boat shed construction
• July-October 2026: Pontoon and waterfront works
• November 2026-February 2027: Amenities building
• March 2027: Official opening

Club members will continue rowing throughout construction, though some temporary adjustments to facilities will be necessary.

Community Support

The project has attracted strong community backing. A local business sponsorship drive raised $150,000 toward fit-out costs, while club members contributed over 500 volunteer hours to site preparation.

Georges River Council has also provided in-kind support including expedited planning approval and coordination with foreshore maintenance schedules.

“The community rallied behind this project,” O’Brien reflected. “People understand what the club means to this area.”

How to Get Involved

Kogarah Bay Rowing Club welcomes new members of all ages and abilities. Learn to Row courses run regularly throughout the year.

The club is located on Bay Street, Kogarah. For more information about membership or programs, visit the club website or attend a Saturday morning come-and-try session.