[ARTICLE UPDATED 13 DEC]

Hello Clubs & Paddlers,

After much consideration DBNSW has unfortunately made the decision that the regatta set to take place this coming Sunday (15 Dec) will not be going ahead.

The current Sunday forecast in Penrith for both air quality (Very Poor - 150 - 200 AQI) and temperature (max of 37 by 2 pm) has presented all of us with challenging circumstances. After consultation with the race officials, independent risk company and members of DBNSW sub-committees we have arrived at the conclusion that the conditions on the day would present too much of a risk to the health and safety of participants. 

Furthermore we have been informed of two other sports (rowing & triathlon) who have now cancelled their activities that were scheduled to take place at SIRC this weekend due to similar concerns.

DBNSW apologises for this late notice but we wanted to have as much forecast data and discussion as possible before a call was made. This is most unfortunate as it was shaping up to be an awesome, action packed day of racing. 

On behalf of DBNSW I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday period and we look forward to seeing everyone back on the water at State Championships on Sunday 12 January 2020.

Kind Regards,
DBNSW Team

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

An update for those planning on attending Race 3 at Penrith on Sunday.

We have notified all attending clubs that while the current plan is to proceed with racing we are closely monitoring both the weather and air quality forecasts on whether or not it is safe to go ahead with the event. A decision will be made Friday afternoon after observing the latest predictions and consulting with the race officials and sub-committees. This may include altering the race schedule or cancelling all together. All teams will be notified shortly after once a decision has been made.

It is also important to note that if the regatta does go ahead that DBNSW and the regatta officials will still be keeping watch on the day's conditions and will utilise air quality thresholds as well as the DBNSW heat policy to ensure racing can be conduct safely for all involved. Unexpected changes or cancellations on the day may occur.

Thank you all for your patience in these challenging circumstances.