President of the organising committee, Bob Symons, comments, that, in the 30 years of the event, this year is the coldest ever recorded starting temperature. A record no one is particularly thrilled about, someone jokes.

Despite the chill, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation among the early risen cohort. The prospect of tackling 83 kilometres of the Darling and Murray Rivers and the Greater Darling Anabranch, is enough to brave the elements, brush off the cold, and launch their boats for this group of enthusiastic rowers.

Over the span of 30 minutes, as the morning sun rises, so, to, does siren after siren, signifying the next round of boats beginning their competitive journey along one of Australia’s great river systems.

The race against the clock is on.

Three rivers. 83 kilometers. 22 boats. 160 event participants and supporters.

In honour of the three-decade milestone, the event returned to Barb and Ian Law’s Avoca on Darling Station property in acknowledgment of Ian, who is responsible for the very first event which took place back in 1991.

The event is also an opportunity to showcase to participants - many who hail from metro areas - just how important accessible health care is for residents of rural Victoria.

“Because they're visiting Wentworth or before that it was Robinvale and Boundary Bend, they’re driving into fairly remote parts of Victoria, and they can see how isolated some of these communities are and the value of the work that RFDS does.”

The longevity of the Rowathon is a testament to the hard work and dedication of many people over many years giving their time and resources.

"Organising the Rowathon takes a large amount of work for the committee and Wentworth District Rowing Club members, preparing for it and getting other members of the community involved. The Wentworth Rotary Club are involved in catering for lunch and the parents committee from the Wentworth Public School, also help with catering on the day. There's a lot of community involvement and coordination happening to make it an enjoyable and fun day," says Bob.

This year’s course provided plenty of firsts, including passing through Lock 10 down the Murray and finishing on the Greater Darling Anabranch.

“I think it was the usual very friendly, adventurous and inclusive event with participants getting a real sense of satisfaction in completing one, two or the very long three legs. There were the very competitive crews who pushed themselves and the crews that were out for an enjoyable row on the great outback rivers.”

RFDS Victoria Chief Executive Scott Chapman attended the event, presenting the committee with a commemorative plaque acknowledging the exciting milestone and thanking them for their continued support.

RFDS Victoria would like to acknowledge Phillip Marshall from Adelaide University Boat Club and Hawthorn Rowing Club who were awarded 2023 Top Individual Fundraiser and 2023 Top Team Fundraisers respectively. Thank you to all participants and supporters who have contributed to this year's fundraiser.

A full list of participants and winners can be accessed here