SRC Annual Dinner 2015

An enthusiastic crowd of senior SRC figures, link long-time supporters and current athletes gathered at Dedes for the annual dinner. Joining them were many partners and guests who were welcomed to the Club for its annual night of nights.

Each year a guest speaker is invited to address the crowd. In recent years this has included a heavy roster of rowing legends like Dan Noonan, Rob Jahrling, Jim Chapman and Mahe Drysdale. This year however, the top of Australia’s Olympic team leadership, Kitty Chiller, accepted the offer to speak. As the Chef de Mission of the team, Kitty is responsible for the team’s preparations for Rio. Core amongst these is the development of culture and values that aspire to make the Aussie team the most respected in the land. Many of SRC’s leading administrators were in attendance and would do well to reflect upon Kitty’s address.

As well as the serious business of elite sports team management, Kitty also reflected on her experiences of the rowing community, which initially were somewhat coloured by having associated primarily with coxswains such as SRC’s own John Boultbee. In recent times however Kitty has followed the results of the national team closely and is confident that a large team will make it to Rio.

During the evening, guests were treated to the usual high standard of fare provided by the Dedes team. An alternate main service of fish and lamb was undoubtedly the highlight, with the Barramundi described by the partner of a senior board member as ‘moist and tasteful’.

Amongst the formal proceedings during the evening was the Captain’s toast to the visitors, Keith’s toast to the Queen and a rousing toast to the club delivered by outgoing Vice-Captain Leah Saunders. There was a hearty response to each toast.

Many of the guests were in a celebratory mood and following the conclusion of the evening retired to the main bar for a night cap. This was followed by a session at PJ’s, and for a couple of brave remaining souls,  a final sojourn to The Dentist’s. A memorable evening was had by all, and thanks must go to the guest of honour on the night, Kitty Chiller.