A regatta to remember

“My mum’s lost both her sisters to breast cancer so we thought we’d do something to remember them and help raise awareness” she said.

“It’s very close to our hearts and it’s a beautiful day to remember those that have lost their battle and to celebrate those who have survived.”

The third annual regatta, held on the Gateway Island Lake, saw 20 teams and almost 450 people take to the water for a day of competition and camaraderie.

Ms Rahaley, of Thurgoona, was part of the Wills Family and Friends Team, who participated in the event for the first time.

It comprised members who had been personally touched by cancer.

“There’s a lot of family in our boat, so we’re here to have a good day and just enjoy ourselves but I think we’ve all got a bit of competitive spirit as well,” she said.

A minute’s silence was also held as rose petals were sprinkled on the lake by four boats of breast cancer survivors to honour those who had lost their battle.

Ms Rahaley said it was an emotional experience for her mother Jenny Latta, who lost her sisters to breast cancer nearly 15 years ago.

“It’s a emotional day for her, I don’t think the effect of losing someone ever lessens,” she said.

“She still misses her sisters as much today as she did when they passed away.”

Brave Hearts president Jenny Black, a retired breast care nurse, said the regatta included four teams of breast cancer survivors, as well as community and competitive teams.

Two Royal Australian Navy teams competed in the regatta for the first time yesterday, while others travelled from as far as Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Wagga and the Mornington Peninsula.

Regatta organiser Jodie Hart said the regatta allowed participants to regain a sense of wellness and self-confidence while having fun and enjoying the company and support of other paddlers.

“That’s what really drives the whole community spirit here because there are 22 people in the boat all working together,” she said.

“It’s kind of like the support group you have when you’re not having a support group; you’re all doing a sport together and it’s just a great excuse to get together and be with positive people.

“No one here is a loser, everyone here is a winner before they even step into the boat.”