Shirleen has been involved in dragon boating from mid-2010. Since then, she's built up extensive experience in representative racing in numerous NSW and VIC State campaigns, Australian National Team (The Auroras) campaigns and as a guest crew member with various other teams abroad. She has also obtained several qualifications within the sport, such as L2 Coaching and L5 Steersperson/Sweep accreditations, having coached NSW region squads, and VIC Snr A State team.

 

Shirleen's contributions to the sport were recognised when she was announced NSW Athlete of the Year in 2020. Her passion to improve the sport in Australia flowed in her involvement in the AusDBF Athletes Commission from 2020-2022.

 

Down Under Dogs (DUDs) is where Shirleen brings together her loves of dragon boat racing, travel, and food.

An accomplished paddler who has represented NSW more times than she can remember. In addition to this, KK has also represented Australia, being part of the Australian National Team (The Auroras) for the 2023 World Championships. KK is an aspiring steersperson and drummer. On top of that, she is a L1 qualified coach, being in the NSW State Premier squad coaching team.

 

The Down Under Dogs is KK's vehicle for satisfying her "destination racing" cravings. She is the proud mum to two Border Collies who occasionally make a cameo appearance at NSW regattas as our unofficial mascots.

 

KK's strength in strategic planning and networking has been instrumental to the success of our campaigns and our growing popularity amongst the dragon boating community in Australia.

Eric brings a dynamic mix of photography, videography, tech savvy, travel experience, and elite dragon boat racing to the Down Under Dogs team.

 

With a strong background in competitive paddling, including stints with the Australian National Team (The Auroras), the VIC State Team, and the Premier coaching squad, he knows the ins and outs of high-level racing.

 

Now a fully accredited steersperson and assistant coach, Eric supports the Yarra River Dragons, the VIC Premier Team, and serves as a technical coach for the Down Under Dogs.

 

His specialty? Capturing the highs and unforgettable moments of every campaign—memories the team can relive long after the finish line.