For the first time in the world a racing scull has been named after a rock band! The Essendon Rowing Club has named a new Swift single scull ‘The Beavers’ in recognition of the band’s contribution to the club’s social and financial well-being. Keith Campbell, Lee Sifonios, Charlie Pennel, Ross Inglis and Steve Gill re-formed ‘The Beavers’ in 2007 and commenced playing to packed houses at the ERC. Keith describes their first gig at the club as “a fun time playing to a crowd of about 180 people. The next gigs attracted about 300!” Keith is quick to point out how close the relationship between ‘The Beavers’ and the ERC has grown.

The ERC has purchased a number of racing single sculls (skinnies) in response to Rowing Victoria’s changes in equipment requirements, particularly in D-grade sculling. Historically, single sculls (other than tubs) were privately owned. The committee has identified a need to name these new singles in order to avoid confusion in equipment allocation. By naming them after groups or entities that have contributed significantly to the club the committee has acknowledged the role that these organisations play in the success of the ERC. Another single scull will be named ‘The Patron’ after the ERC club patron (currently Judy Maddigan). The larger boats will continue to be named in the traditional way.