History

Founded in 1885, Swan River Rowing Club (SRRC) is one of Western Australia’s oldest sporting institutions. The club was born from a group of working men who, inspired by the growing popularity of rowing, gathered at the United Service Hotel and resolved to form their own club. With early fundraising efforts – including a walking match and dance that raised £40 – they commissioned local boatbuilder William Lawrence to build their first gig.

The launch of The Swan in 1887 marked the club’s official beginning. Its first major race at the Perth Regatta saw SRRC defeat the more established West Australian Rowing Club, instantly cementing its competitive spirit and community pride. Early regattas became major social occasions, with crowds of thousands gathering along the Perth foreshore.

As membership grew, the club built a succession of boat sheds along Perth Water and later at Canning Bridge. The fourth shed, opened in 1907 and described as the “finest rowing shed in the Commonwealth,” became a landmark on Riverside Drive. Despite setbacks – including relocations, debt, and even fire – the club endured thanks to the dedication of its members and strong community support, including fundraising led by Ladies’ Committees.

Today the clubhouse sits on the Canning River at Mount Pleasant / Applecross (next to Canning Bridge). The current boathouse and facilities reflect both recent upgrades and the club’s ongoing presence on the riverbank — the site is recognised for its local heritage significance. 

SRRC has a long record of competitive success, producing rowers for state and national crews as early as the 1900s, and later achieving dominance in the 1970s and 1980s. Notable achievements include victories at the Champion Eights, multiple Pennant wins, and the club’s clean sweep of every Open Championship event in 1984. Parliamentary records note the club has produced around 20 Olympic athletes and an Olympic coach, with medal-winning performances at national and international championships.

Beyond the water, SRRC has played a vital role in community and culture. The club has hosted annual regattas, social balls, and centenary celebrations, while also commemorating members who served in both World Wars. Its centenary in 1985 was marked with regattas, exhibitions, and even its first international competition at the FISA World Masters Regatta in Toronto, Canada.

The club’s legacy continues through the achievements of its members, including Olympians, national champions, and influential coaches such as Nick Garratt AM and George Xouris, who have shaped Australian rowing at all levels. Today, SRRC remains a proud community club, carrying forward over 140 years of tradition, competition, and camaraderie on the Swan River.