At Mackay's Harbour Beach, a new generation of women has re-entered surfboat racing, marking a significant revival after a three-decade absence. These women, led by rower Clare McAlpine, have come together to form a surfboat team, undergoing rigorous training three times a week. McAlpine reflects on the physical and mental challenges that come with the sport, indicating the commitment required to compete at this level.

The revival of the women's surfboat team is not just a celebration of sports; it also carries a poignant history. On February 27, 1996, a tragic incident occurred during a training session when team member Fiona Clyde tragically drowned after a large swell caused their boat to capsize. This tragedy left a lasting impact on the community and the surf lifesaving fraternity, causing a hiatus in women's participation in this demanding sport.

Now, as these women gather to honor past legacies while forging their own, the establishment of this team serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and community spirit. Their efforts not only revive the sport but also create a space for women in Mackay to embrace surfboat racing, pushing the narrative beyond the shadow of tragedy toward empowerment and camaraderie in a competitive sporting environment.