Rising to new national challenge

Sandstone Point’s John Butler will channel the Invictus spirit when he takes to the water in this weekend’s Australian National Dragon Boat Championships.

John, ex-Army and now a member of Dragon Boat Pumicestone, will be among thousands of paddlers on the Sunshine Coast for the national titles on April 18-23.

With three years of dragon boat racing under his belt, the 72-year-old has been selected for Queensland’s Sen C Division (over 60) squad at Lake Kawana.

It followed a rigorous selection process including push-ups, pull-ups, planking, sessions on the water and a timed 2km on a rowing machine.

After six months training with Queensland’s Sen C crew, the Invictus Australia Dragon Boat champion believes the team has “an opportunity to win gold”.

It has been quite a journey for the former infantryman/commando and logistical manager who admits to facing “challenges” after being discharged from the Army.

During a 47-year career, John was deployed to Afghanistan, Malaysia, Timor, Bougainville and PNG, promoted to Warrant Officer 1 and served with infantry units and later Army Reserve battalions.

“After serving my country, I was at a loss of what to do with myself to maintain my physical and mental well-being,” he said.

“I was looking for a sport that would allow me to challenge myself, but needed to be mindful of my age and injuries over my military and previous sporting activities.

“I was introduced to dragon boating by a colleague I volunteer with at Meals on Wheels Bribie Island and attended a come-and-try session.

“At first I was not sure I would be challenged by dragon boating but after attending a regatta I was sure this was the sport for me.

“The team work and camaraderie can only be compared to my time in the Army. Dragon boating is a full-body workout with great people while sitting down.

“It has helped me not only physically, but has been a huge part of my ability to deal with PTSD and anxiety.

“Dragon boating and Invictus, I believe, share the same goals. Physical and Mental well-being and total inclusiveness in an understanding and accepting environment.

“My passion for dragon boating can only be compared to my determination to get other Defence personnel, serving or retired, to experience the enjoyment."

More than 76 dragon boating clubs will be represented at the Australian Championships this weekend, which will see 370 races.