DRAGONSA B R E A S Twww.dragonsabreast.com.au

Individual Guide to Dragons Abreast

Australia

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement”

Helen Keller

Dragons Abreast Australia

GPO Box 1948 Darwin NT 0801www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Ph: 1300 889 566

ABN 33 104 261 029

© Dragons Abreast Australia September 2012

\ABN 33 104 261 029

Individual Guide to Dragons Abreast Australia

www.dragonsabreast.com.au

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement” Helen Keller

„ Dragons Abreast Australia 2012

March 2013 Dragons Abreast Australia PO Box 36923 Winnellie NT 0821

www.dragonsabreast.com.au Ph: 1300 889 566

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Dragons Abreast Australia Organisational Structure

as at March 2013

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INDEX PAGE No.

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

INTRODUCTION

1. OUR BEGINNINGS1.1 1.2 1.3

Who is Dragons Abreast? The 3 key words – awareness, inclusiveness and participation Objective, Aims and Principles

2. WHY WE ARE SPECIAL2.1. Composite Teams2.2. Chinese New Year 2.3. National Paddle Day 2.4. National Festival 2.5. Flowers on the Water™

3. BRANDING & DESIGN GUIDE3.1. Intellectual Property – What’s in a Name?

4. ON THE WATER4.1 Team composition 4.2 Safety and Medical Concerns

5. FUNDRAISING5.1 General information 5.2 Dragons Abreast Australia – our Charity 5.3 Perfectly Pink Parties 5.4 Donations in Lieu of Gifts for Special Occasions 5.5 Workplace Giving 5.6 Wills and Bequests

6. THE DRAGONS ABREAST TEAM6.1 Coordinators 6.2 Regional Representatives 6.3 Community Liaison 6.4 Supporters 6.5 Volunteers

7. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION7.1 Individual Members’ Obligations 7.2 Communication 7.3 Policies 7.4 ID Cards 7.5 Merchandise

8. APPLICATION FOR INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP

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7 7 8

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10 10 10

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13 13-14 14-15

15 15 15

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16-17 17 17

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17-18 19 19

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INTRODUCTION

You might be a breast cancer survivor or a valued supporter, you might paddle or perhaps you are one of the invaluable on land individuals. Whatever your chosen role, we are delighted to be able to give you this personal copy of our individual guide.

We issued a guide in 2009 and, since Dragons Abreast is continuing to grow, the DAA Board members have decided to update this important guide which is a great way for each individual to gain a further insight into our national organisation.

As a member of a Dragons Abreast team – no matter where you live in Australia - you are part of a nationwide organisation that offers those travelling the breast cancer journey a unique environment in which to get fit, have fun and overcome the sense of isolation that a diagnosis of breast cancer can sometimes bring.

A Dragons Abreast team is completely different to any other dragon boat crew or indeed organisation. The main emphasis of our teams is to focus on participation.

Our philosophy is that we are already winners because we are here and able to participate.

Our race is against breast cancer – not each other.

The age range and physical fitness levels of team members vary considerably, yet all are encouraged to paddle together fostering the philosophy of inclusiveness. It is vital that no one is discouraged or made to feel inadequate. The whole object of our team is to allow all members to gain a sense of achievement as they paddle.

The history of Dragons Abreast Australia began in 1998 when a young survivor from Darwin called Michelle Hanton attended the1st National Breast Cancer Conference for Consumers in Canberra. Over 300 women attended, including 9 from the Northern Territory, which included Michelle Hanton. One of the speakers was a Canadian journalist who mentioned dragon boating for breast cancer survivor paddlers in Canada. As they say “the rest is history!”

It was also after the conference the 1st Field of Women was held on the lawns of old Parliament House in Canberra and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) was launched. Six weeks later 20 women – breast cancer survivors and supporters paddling under the name NT Breast Cancer Voice, entered a team for a fun day of dragon boat racing at Lake Alexander in the Northern Territory.

We have grown from 20 women to 43 member groups, with a membership totalling approximately 2,500 in 13 years (1998 – 2012).

Our history is contained in the book “A Dragon’s Tale” which is highly recommended reading for all who are a part of Dragons Abreast.

The key to the success of Dragons Abreast is to understand that we are NOT aboutcompetition but about awareness, participation and inclusiveness. The dragon boat is our vehicle. If we lose sight of these philosophies, we lose our uniqueness and simply become another dragon boat team.

We paddle to demonstrate that there is “quality of life” after a diagnosis of breast cancer. By being part of a team, we are able to help individuals regain a sense of health, wellness and self-confidence and enjoy the camaraderie of others who have travelled a similar journey. We hope you find this guide informative and welcome your feedback.

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The time line of our growth

1998 Dragons Abreast Australia begins in Darwin, NT

2000 Nationals in Penrith, where a composite Dragons Abreast team with women from ACT, NT, NSW and QLD participated

2003 Dragons Abreast celebrates its 5th anniversary in Canberra at the Masters Games with Dr Don McKenzie as special guest

Dragons Abreast Tasmania in Hobart was the first ever dragon boat club in Tasmania

2004 Australian Story, “In the Pink”, aired and we were overwhelmed with interest

2005 28 member groups. A presence in every State and Territory

Dragons Abreast Australia makes maritime history by being part of the National Maritime Museum display in Sydney

Abreast In A Boat 10 year regatta celebration held in Vancouver

Dragons Abreast Australia received publicity in the Australian Medical Association magazine (the article is available on the Dragons Abreast website)

Planning for 2007 Abreast in Australia to be held in Caloundra, QLD begins

2007 Launch of A Dragon’s Tale, the history of our first 10 years

Abreast in Australia – world’s largest breast cancer survivor regatta to date was held in Caloundra where 2,000 women from all over the world attended and participated. It was hosted by Dragons Abreast Australia

2008 Dragons Abreast Australia celebrates its 10th anniversary

Michelle Hanton, our founder, was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in recognition of her services to women's health, especially as Founder of Dragons Abreast Australia

2009 Dragons Abreast Australia moves from Michelle’s granny flat into our own offices.

2010 Teams from Dragons Abreast Australia competed in International Breast Cancer paddling Commissions regatta in Peterborough, Canada

Dragons Abreast Australia first ever national convention was held in Hobart.

2011 Dragons Abreast Australia first ever national regatta was held in Caloundra

Michelle Hanton and Janelle Gamble stepped down as Board members, both continuing to serve as members of the Executive

2011-12 Lee Millard-Newton appointed as Chairperson of the Board. Lee continued to serve as Chairperson throughout 2012, with Board Members Matt Boevink and Anne Stowe.

2013 Sue Bowen is appointed as Chairperson of the Board, along with Board Members Anne Stowe, Jo Parry,Marion Blake and Genevieve Carruthers. DAA's first Chief Executive Officer, Brett Mason, is appointed.

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Origin and benefits of Dragon Boating for Breast Cancer survivors

The breast cancer survivor dragon boat movement was pioneered in Vancouver, Canada. Abreast In A Boat was established in 1996 by Dr Don McKenzie from the Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Centre at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

In February 1996, Dr McKenzie set up a study to demonstrate that exercise was beneficial for breast cancer survivors. This was a landmark study because recommendations with regard to physical exercise after breast surgery were usually very conservative, with the emphasis being on what women could not or should not do!

Dragon boating was chosen because it is a strenuous, repetitive upper body activity and by simply pulling harder can vary the intensity of the training. This is very important because of the diversity of age ranges and athletic abilities.

The findings of the study showed paddlers experienced marked improvement in both physical and psychological health. There were no new cases of lymphoedema and those who already had lymphoedema displayed no adverse effects.

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Origin and benefits of Dragon Boating for Breast Cancer survivors

The breast cancer survivor dragon boat movement was pioneered in Vancouver, Canada.Abreast In A Boat was established in 1996 by Dr Don McKenzie from the Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Centre at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

In February 1996, Dr McKenzie set up a study to demonstrate that exercise was beneficialfor breast cancer survivors. This was a landmark study because recommendations with regard to physical exercise after breast surgery were usually very conservative, with the emphasis being on what women could not or should not do!

Dragon boating was chosen because it is a strenuous, repetitive upper body activity and bysimply pulling harder can vary the intensity of the training. This is very important because ofthe diversity of age ranges and athletic abilities.

The findings of the study showed paddlers experienced marked improvement in both physical and psychological health. There were no new cases of lymphoedema and those who already had lymphoedema displayed no adverse effects.

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1. OUR BEGINNINGS

1.1 Who is Dragons Abreast?

Officially we are:-

A registered charity and a not for profit company

Made up of autonomous member groups that operate under and adhere to Dragons Abreast Australia’s national policies and procedures

A member of the Australian Sports Commission’s Club Development Program –formerly known as Active Australia program

A Member of the Australian Dragon Boat Federation (AusDBF)

In 1998 it was a struggle to find 20 breast cancer survivors to fill a boat and now, 13 years later, we are strong and vibrant and participate in many events including hosting our own state, national and international regattas.

Why does it work? It is empowering

It is a positive experience

There was a gap in the breast cancer community for those post treatment

Dragons Abreast Australia is a unique breast cancer charity as we are totally grass roots and hands on. We collectively assist those living with breast cancer. All member groups, and therefore you as individual members, benefit from our name and it is because of our collective efforts nationally that we have grown to so many groups – which means we have brought joy, happiness and hope to numerous individuals!

Dragons Abreast is wholly focused on helping individuals regain full and active lives after breast cancer whilst raising awareness in the community.

1.2 The 3 key words – “Awareness”, “Inclusiveness” and “Participation”

“Awareness”

All members are expected to actively

advocate, promote and raise breast cancer

awareness

“Inclusiveness”

All members are expected to promote

inclusiveness, regardless of age

and/or ability

“Participation”

All members are expected to promote

participation. Our race is against breast

cancer, not each other

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1.3 Objective, Aims and Principles

Objective

To promote breast cancer awareness and education and to demonstrate that people can fully participate in life despite physical limitations as a result of treatment for breast cancer.

Competition outcome does not matter. We are all winners by simply participating as part of a team.

Aims

Dragons Abreast Australia aims to:-

Encourage those with a diagnosis of breast cancer to regain a full and activelife despite their diagnosis

Give a “face” to the breast cancer statistics by participating in regattas andother competitions as breast cancer survivor dragon boat teams

Show breast cancer does not discriminate on the basis of age, race or gender

Promote wellness, fitness, fun and camaraderie for breast cancer survivors

Maintain links with other breast cancer dragon boat teams internationally

Promote early detection

Always encourage the search for a cure

It is important to note that Dragons Abreast Australia and its member groups are not support groups. The support gained as members of Dragons Abreast is as a result of friendships made.

Principles Dragons Abreast Australia is based on awareness, participation and

inclusiveness

Our race is against breast cancer, rather than on competition

Open communication and accountability are vital to the success of DragonsAbreast Australia member groups and their individual members

Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth…

Tame the dragon and the gift is yours.

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1.3 Objective, Aims and Principles

Objective

To promote breast cancer awareness and education and to demonstrate thatpeople can fully participate in life despite physical limitations as a result oftreatment for breast cancer.

Competition outcome does not matter. We are all winners by simply participating as part of a team.

Aims

Dragons Abreast Australia aims to:-

Encourage those with a diagnosis of breast cancer to regain a full and active life despite their diagnosis

Give a “face” to the breast cancer statistics by participating in regattas and other competitions as breast cancer survivor dragon boat teams

Show breast cancer does not discriminate on the basis of age, race or gender

Promote wellness, fitness, fun and camaraderie for breast cancer survivors

Maintain links with other breast cancer dragon boat teams internationally

Promote early detection

Always encourage the search for a cure

It is important to note that Dragons Abreast Australia and its member groups are not support groups. The support gained as members of Dragons Abreast is as aresult of friendships made.

Principles Dragons Abreast Australia is based on awareness, participation and

inclusiveness

Our race is against breast cancer, rather than on competition

Open communication and accountability are vital to the success of DragonsAbreast Australia member groups and their individual members

Challenge is a dragon with a gift in its mouth…

Tame the dragon and the gift is yours.

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2. WHY WE ARE SPECIAL

We

Are unique

Are grass roots

Provide a beacon of hope

2.1 Composite Teams

Dragons Abreast Australia has its roots in composite teams. The sheer size of Australia, the cost of travel, and the fact that it is very difficult to get 22 women from one group to travel to a competition outside of home base, is the reason that composite teams came into existence.

The very first team to paddle at the Australian National Titles, held in Penrith in 2000, was a composite team. The team was made up of members from ACT, NSW, NT and QLD. The crew was very green and came last in all races (but 1st in their lane!) - what a fabulous experience this was! The friendships made that day are lasting bonds, with many of our ‘originals’ still paddling and still very firm friends.

Composite teams were taken one step further with the formation of Internationally Abreast – a chance to participate overseas!

The first Internationally Abreast team, which participated in Toronto in 2001, wasmade up of 5 Aussies (from ACT, QLD, NT, NSW), and, together with women from various Canadian provinces, went on to win the B Division of the Spirit Cup.

In 2006 a team comprising Italians and Australians joined together in Vancouver for the Abreast in A Boat 10th Anniversary celebration. Despite language difficulties and different styles of paddling, the team came through with flying colours.

The Aussie sweep of team “AusItalia” remarked: “What a challenge it was, but what joy to see women from two continents work together. To witness these women win their division was a highlight of the regatta”.

Locally, it is evident that more women are able to paddle if they are willing to join a composite group. This has been the case at the Chinese New Year Celebrations in Darling Harbour and at several of the Australian Masters Games.

We must continuously remind ourselves what Dragons Abreast is about – our race is not against each other, it’s against breast cancer!

2.2 Chinese New Year

The Darling Harbour Chinese New Year races are a highlight of the dragon boating calendar – a fun and festive environment and a wonderful chance to fly the flag for Dragons Abreast and to raise breast cancer awareness amongst a very diverse range of people, as this is one event that has lots of general public spectators! This is a very busy weekend and there is much to see and do.

It is quite common for members of the public to stop you and ask what you are all about – seeing as we make quite a spectacle! Feel free to tell your own little story (what you feel comfortable sharing) and let them know what Dragons Abreast means to you, how being a part of Dragons Abreast Australia has changed your life. Mention the website and also suggest they visit our information booth to pick up a leaflet, make a donation or purchase a souvenir.

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2.3 National Paddle Day As an outcome from the 2011 DAA National Convention in Ballarat, Marion Blake from DA Canberra suggested that DAA host an annual National Paddle Day. Marion has been a champion of the concept, developing generic posters and media releases to support member groups to communicate a consistent message around the country. Hundreds of Dragons Abreast members and their communities across the country now provide a positive start to worldwide breast cancer month of October by participating in Dragons Abreast National Paddle Day. The event is a fantastic way to raise awareness about breast cancer along with Dragons Abreast Australia bringing a sense of unity and kindredship to members knowing others across Australia are paddling as one body.

2.4 Dragons Abreast Australia Festival

Since the first event in 2009, the festival has grown to be the largest single fundraiser for Dragons Abreast Australia. Up to 70 corporate and community teams fundraise to register and compete at Darling Harbour.

2.5 Flowers on the Water™

The first ever Flowers on the Water™ ceremony was performed in Australia in 2001.

Since its debut in Australia it has become increasingly popular in the sense that it is sometimes viewed as an “attraction” for spectators rather than a unique and special ceremony for breast cancer survivors.

We take the view that this is a very special ceremony that must never be abused. It is for this reason that we have trademarked the event in Australia.

What this means is that no public ceremony may be performed without the express and written permission of Dragons Abreast Australia.

This is not to prevent it being performed but rather to protect something that is very precious to each of us as members of Dragons Abreast.

All member groups should actively protect this ceremony.

Refer to the DAA website for more details.

We are all so elated and emotionally overwhelmed. I thought Caloundra couldn’t be beaten. Sydney was equally as powerful. I feel like I’ve climbed two of the highest peaks in the world; and I know there are more to come. What a day we had. We feel like elite sportswomen. The flowers ceremony was amazing the applause from the crowd after the silence was just wonderful. Toni Borrett – Dragons Abreast Melbourne Chinese New Year 2008

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2.3 National Paddle DayAs an outcome from the 2011 DAA National Convention in Ballarat, Marion Blake from DA Canberra suggested that DAA host an annual National Paddle Day.Marion has been a champion of the concept, developing generic posters and media releases to support member groups to communicate a consistent message around the country. Hundreds of Dragons Abreast members and their communities across the country now provide a positive start to worldwide breast cancer month of October by participating in Dragons Abreast National Paddle Day. The event isa fantastic way to raise awareness about breast cancer along with DragonsAbreast Australia bringing a sense of unity and kindredship to members knowing others across Australia are paddling as one body.

2.4 Dragons Abreast Australia Festival

Since the first event in 2009, the festival has grown to be the largest single fundraiser for Dragons Abreast Australia. Up to 70 corporate and communityteams fundraise to register and compete at Darling Harbour.

2.5 Flowers on the Water™

The first ever Flowers on the Water™ ceremony was performed in Australia in 2001.

Since its debut in Australia it has become increasingly popular in the sense that itis sometimes viewed as an “attraction” for spectators rather than a unique and special ceremony for breast cancer survivors.

We take the view that this is a very special ceremony that must never be abused. Itis for this reason that we have trademarked the event in Australia.

What this means is that no public ceremony may be performed without the expressand written permission of Dragons Abreast Australia.

This is not to prevent it being performed but rather to protect something that is very precious to each of us as members of Dragons Abreast.

All member groups should actively protect this ceremony.

Refer to the DAA website for more details.

We are all so elated and emotionally overwhelmed. I thought Caloundra couldn’t be beaten. Sydneywas equally as powerful. I feel like I’ve climbed two of the highest peaks in the world; and I knowthere are more to come. What a day we had. We feel like elite sportswomen. The flowers ceremonywas amazing the applause from the crowd after the silence was just wonderful.Toni Borrett – Dragons Abreast Melbourne Chinese New Year 2008

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3. BRANDING

3.1 Intellectual Property – What’s in a Name?

Types of Intellectual property:-

patents for new or improved products or processes

trade marks for letters, words, phrases, sounds, smells, shapes, logos,pictures, aspects of packaging or a combination of these, to distinguish thegoods and services of one trader from those of another

designs for the shape or appearance of manufactured goods

copyright for original material in literary, artistic, dramatic or musical works,films, broadcasts, multimedia and computer programs

confidentiality/trade secrets including know-how and other confidential orproprietary information

Trademarking protects all the above and Dragons Abreast™ is protected by a registered trademark. This means our logo and also the words Dragons Abreast (our name) as well as Flowers on the Water™ cannot be used without our express consent.

What the trademarked logo represents:-

The yellow twisted loop that ends in a dragon headrepresents the dragon spirit and its embrace of women as it encircles them.

The bright yellow colour represents life and hope.

The pink ladies represent the strength we gainfrom each other and that we are not alone on ourbreast cancer journey. The multiple pink ladies arealso an extension of the silhouette figures whichare planted at the Field of Women and have goneon to become the current logo of the BreastCancer Network Australia.

The blue waves represent the boat and the wateron which we paddle.

Individual members need to value the privilege of being part of Dragons Abreast and protect the value of our Trademark and Intellectual Property.

Wear your Dragons Abreast shirts with pride and be secure in the knowledge you are part of something very special!

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4. ON THE WATER

4.1 Team Composition

A dragon boat crew consists of 20 paddlers, a drummer and a sweep.

The role of the Sweep

The sweep steers the boat from a standing position at the back of the boat using the long oar. The sweep is in control of the boat and is responsible for the safety of the crew. This is a very important position which carries great responsibility.

The sweep:-

Issues the paddling commands in the boat

Controls the boat

Must be aware of boats around them

Is responsible for the head count

Paddlers must listen to and obey the sweep’s commands.

Standard Sweep Calls - It is essential that all paddlers are familiar with the standard sweep calls. These calls are common throughout Australia although there may be some variations from area to area.

4.2 Safety and Medical Concerns

Safety – this is the major issueAll Dragons Abreast member groups must follow the safety guidelines set down by their State Dragon Boat Association and Club. Dragons Abreast member groups must join their State Association.

There are a number of safety issues and these do vary from region to region. Different Clubs and State bodies also have their own safety rules.

Lightning

The golden rule is that you do not go out on the water if there is lightning about.

Paddlers are encouraged to wear sunscreen, hats, long sleeved shirts or rashies and drink plenty of water whilst training.

Medical Concerns It is necessary to sufficiently recover from your breast cancer treatment, both physically and psychologically, prior to commencing paddling.

Paddlers should generally allow at least 3 months after completion of treatment before commencing this wonderful sport. This is only a rule of thumb and each individual paddler needs to seek their own medical advice prior to commencing paddling.

Warm up and cool down exercises are an extremely important part of each dragon boat session and reduce the risk of injuries.

It is recommended to have a weekly routine of regular, gentle exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga, tai chi, etc.

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5. FUNDRAISING

5.1 General Information Dragons Abreast has a very positive reputation within the Australian community. Our member groups have carefully built up this reputation over the past 13 years.

We are very protective of our reputation and it is important that every individual associated with us understands what a valuable commodity Dragons Abreast is. As our profile has increased it became evident that we needed to be more aware that there are people in the community who often want to ‘get on the bandwagon’. Most are genuine but there are also those who have their own agenda.

It is very important that all of us, as individuals, who are associated with Dragons Abreast be careful of the type of fund raising activities with which we associate ourselves.

It takes a long time to build a reputation but only a moment to tear it down.

We want Dragons Abreast to remain strong so collectively we need to protect our organisation.

Breast cancer touches many people and is an emotive issue. Dragons Abreast considers that to play upon this emotion is unethical and, in the longer term, will undermine both our reputation and the value of our name, Dragons Abreast, to the detriment of the breast cancer cause overall.

The purpose of a particular fund raising activity needs to be clearly stated at all times.

Individual members and member groups of Dragons Abreast need to be conscious that we do not portray ourselves as victims of breast cancer and in need of money for ourselves.

At NO time must funds raised under the ‘breast cancer’ banner be used for travel to attend a sporting event or for international airfares.

It is important that groups identify areas where funds are required and not to simply fund raise for the sake of fund raising.

It is better to have a couple of major events each year than to constantly fund raise. With careful planning, events could become regular features, making organisation much simpler in the future.

It is also important not to take advantage of the generosity and support of the public and the media. Use them all wisely and you will have friends for life.

All individual members have a right to know how money raised will be spent.

While fundraising for travel to regattas is strictly not permitted, fundraising to send representatives to attend the annual Dragons Abreast National Convention is encouraged. This is because the National Convention is an education and information sharing opportunity. Representation by all member groups is essential for the long term sustainability of the organisation.

5.2 Dragons Abreast Australia – our Charity

Dragons Abreast Australia is a registered charity and should be considered as the primary charity supported by all Dragons Abreast member groups.

We cannot afford to allow ourselves to be used as fundraising machines for other breast cancer charities that have infinitely more fundraising capacity than Dragons Abreast Australia will ever have.

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We do not have offices in high-rise buildings, nor do we have numerous paid staff, as do other main breast cancer charities. Also unlike those other breast cancer charities, Dragons Abreast Australia receives no government funding as we do not fit into any of the boxes as we are unique.

Dragons Abreast Australia needs the support of each of you individually and collectively if we are to continue to extend the magic that is Dragons Abreast to those who continue to join us.

As the figures for those diagnosed with breast cancer increase there is one piece of good news in that the mortality rates are stable and have not increased in the last 13 years. This means there are more people living with breast cancer which means more needing a group such as Dragons Abreast to help them discover that there is much good living ahead despite this insidious disease.

Charity begins at home All members need to be very proud of Dragons Abreast and understand that we each have an obligation to support our own national organisation, first and foremost, and to repay, with our own various efforts, the benefits we have received from being a part of Dragons Abreast.

This type of support is essential to the future sustainability of Dragons Abreast Australia, the Member Groups and ultimately you as the individual member within a group.

Support takes many forms and is not only monetary. Every individual has different skills and different times in their lives when they are in a position to assist. To learn more about how you might assist on the national level please contact volunteer@dragonsabreast.org.au

5.3 Perfectly Pink Parties Enjoy to the fullest the opportunity to wear pink, send pink invitations, decorate your venue in pink, eat, drink and think pink!

OR – you could be a rebel and change this to a no pink allowed! These parties are a program which everyone and anyone can get behind, in a positive, productive manner – with positive outcomes on a national level! Parties do not need to generate huge amounts of money but lots of small contributions soon add up and make a huge difference!

Invitations

Many people have already decided as to the type of PINK PARTY they will have. Perhaps an invitation, if you’re issuing them, in the shape of a pink paddler?

If you intend to advertise your party then flyers or newspaper invitations could feature the DAA logo, which we can supply in black and white or colour – just ask us!

Raffles, Door Prizes and more!!! This is up you! No doubt you’ll be able to find local businesses or friends who would be happy to donate a prize for a raffle, silent auction or for games.

Themes A few of the ideas to date have included: Pink Morning Tea; ‘Pims, Pavloa and Picture Parties’; Theatre party; fancy dress or masquerade;cocktail party;barbecue; paddle party; Pamper party – real girlie stuff – pink nail polish, pink bubbles, massages …and so on.

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“…… it is an initiative with the potential to become part of the annual calendar. Part of the appeal is that each group or individual can make of it what they want as far as the function goes, but there is a unifying theme…………. (Pat Hancock, Dragons Abreast NT)

The production of your Perfectly Pink Party is purely your prerogative and we know that the Pink Ladies are marvelously creative so this is your individual opportunity to show what YOU can do and have some FUN at the same time.

5.4 Donations in Lieu of Gifts for Special Occasions

Often invitations to birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations include a stipulation that ‘no gifts please’ or ‘in lieu of gifts donations may be made to and a favourite charity is named.

As Dragons Abreast Australia is a registered charity you may like to nominate us. Call the office for more details if you would like further information.

5.5 Workplace Giving

This is where a donation is deducted by your employer from your gross salary for each pay period before referring to the tax table and deducting the tax contribution.

Therefore, you receive the benefit of the tax deduction each pay period, depending on the amount donated. The workplace involved should show confirmation of the donation on your payment summaries each pay period.

Becoming involved in a workplace giving scheme is beneficial for everyone involved and is highly cost effective.

• Dragons Abreast receives the donations as a lump sum from each employer.This reduces administrative costs because we process only one donation fromeach employer.

• Dragons Abreast is not required to issue receipts to the employee donors.

For employees, positives include the benefit of receiving a tax deduction each pay period.

Employees do not need to request receipts to substantiate donation deductions arranged through Workplace Giving scheme if:

• The total donation amount is included in their payment summary, or

• They have a record from their employer outlining the total donation amount forthe financial year.

5.6 Wills and Bequests Although no one likes to talk about death it is something that is a reality. You may like to consider leaving a bequest to Dragons Abreast Australia. It's a relatively simple thing to do but we recommend that the donation should be organised in consultation with a lawyer and that you discuss your intentions with your family in the first instance.

Please contact us if you would like more information on supporting Dragons Abreast:

1300 889 566

fundraising@dragonsabreast.org.au

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6. THE DRAGONS ABREAST TEAM

6.1 Coordinators

As we are an organisation of breast cancer survivors it is essential that all Coordinators and Presidents be breast cancer survivors as it would be extremely inappropriate for the groups to have a committee that is not led by a survivor.

It is the role of the Coordinator to pass on information to individual members within the group. Each group elects their own Coordinator – so if you feel you need more information please ask your Coordinator in the first instance. Often the role of co-ordinator and president are combined. It is the individual group’s prerogative to name their leader either President or Coordinator.

If the Coordinator is unable to answer the query then the next step would be to check the website FAQ or contacthelp@dragonsabreast.org.au for further information.

6.2 Supporters

When we use the term supporter we are referring to life partners, family members, carers and friends of breast cancer survivors and those who have a genuine interest in the breast cancer cause. Some supporters are paddlers and some are not. Supporters are also sometimes survivors who choose not to paddle for various reasons.

All supporters are a very valuable part of Dragons Abreast and we all need to be conscious that we include and acknowledge them. In the event that supporters wish to paddle, where possible, we create composite teams, just as we have composites for the survivors!

As Dragons Abreast Australia is a breast cancer group – survivors of breast cancer MUST come first.

Supporters who join member groups should be made aware of this at the outset to ensure there is no cause for distress at a later date if, for instance, an occasion arises where they need to stand aside to allow a survivor to have their place in a boat.

If supporters are life partners, they too have special needs for their own support, which we are not qualified to provide, but many gain strength from meeting others through Dragons Abreast Australia, who are travelling on a similar journey.

6.3 Volunteers

Dragons Abreast Australia is a volunteer run organisation and it is important to always remember that volunteers have rights that must be respected.

Volunteers are essential to the future of Dragons Abreast Australia and therefore to the future of all Member Groups and you as individual members.

The people who assist with the running of Dragons Abreast Australia including the Directors, the, the Webmaster, the Policy team, Newsletter and the Fundraising committees are all volunteers. Many of these people have jobs and families. Their dedication and commitment to Dragons Abreast Australia has been, and continues to be, an integral and essential component of our success and economic sustainability.

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6. THE DRAGONS ABREAST TEAM

6.1 Coordinators

As we are an organisation of breast cancer survivors it is essential that allCoordinators and Presidents be breast cancer survivors as it would be extremelyinappropriate for the groups to have a committee that is not led by a survivor.

It is the role of the Coordinator to pass on information to individual members within the group. Each group elects their own Coordinator – so if you feel you need more information please ask your Coordinator in the first instance. Often the role of co-ordinator and president are combined. It is the individual group’s prerogative to name their leader either President or Coordinator.

If the Coordinator is unable to answer the query then the next step would be tocheck the website FAQ or contacthelp@dragonsabreast.org.au for furtherinformation.

6.2 Supporters

When we use the term supporter we are referring to life partners, family members,carers and friends of breast cancer survivors and those who have a genuine interest in the breast cancer cause. Some supporters are paddlers and some arenot. Supporters are also sometimes survivors who choose not to paddle forvarious reasons.

All supporters are a very valuable part of Dragons Abreast and we all need to be conscious that we include and acknowledge them. In the event that supporterswish to paddle, where possible, we create composite teams, just as we have composites for the survivors!

As Dragons Abreast Australia is a breast cancer group – survivors of breast cancerMUST come first.

Supporters who join member groups should be made aware of this at the outset to ensure there is no cause for distress at a later date if, for instance, an occasion arises where they need to stand aside to allow a survivor to have their place in a boat.

If supporters are life partners, they too have special needs for their own support,which we are not qualified to provide, but many gain strength from meeting othersthrough Dragons Abreast Australia, who are travelling on a similar journey.

6.3 Volunteers

Dragons Abreast Australia is a volunteer run organisation and it is important to always remember that volunteers have rights that must be respected.

Volunteers are essential to the future of Dragons Abreast Australia and therefore to the future of all Member Groups and you as individual members.

The people who assist with the running of Dragons Abreast Australia including the Directors, the, the Webmaster, the Policy team, Newsletter and the Fundraising committees are all volunteers. Many of these people have jobs and families. Theirdedication and commitment to Dragons Abreast Australia has been, and continuesto be, an integral and essential component of our success and economicsustainability.

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There are also numerous diligent dragons behind the scenes, volunteers from all across Australia, some survivors and some supporters, who assist in the day to day running of our organisation. All these people are extremely valuable assets to Dragons Abreast Australia.

Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless. (Sherry Anderson)

7. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

7.1 Individual Members’ Obligations

Support and advocate the principles and aims of Dragons Abreast Australia

Work co-operatively to support Dragons Abreast at local and national level

Acknowledge you have responsibilities to team mates and to contribute to apositive environment within the group

Be prepared to contribute to the operation of the member group, other than asa paddling member

To accept Dragons Abreast Australia is your primary breast cancer charity

7.2 Communication

Communication is the key to success in any organisation.

Website www.dragonsabreast.com.au

The Dragons Abreast Australia national website is our showcase to the world.

The website was established by founding Webmaster, Jan Skorich from the ACT.

Members have the opportunity to be involved with our national site by taking on maintenance of their own group pages – this includes blogging onto the coordinators blog and loading photographs via Picasa which all then run onto your own group page.

If you are interested in assisting our Webmaster, please contact webmaster@dragonsabreast.org.au

Dragons Abreast Australia does not permit member groups to set up their own websites using the name Dragons Abreast or any part thereof.

Email

Dragons Abreast communicates with members primarily by email as this is the most cost effective means.

It is important to understand that there can be some negative impact with emails as it can be taken as very literal and sometimes the content can be misinterpreted. If you are unsure we recommend you check with your Coordinator.

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Dragons Abreast has a formal Email Policy and Email Etiquette notes located in the Dragons Abreast member group manual and in the Coordinator’s area of the website. Please ask your Coordinator for more information. It is extremely important and vital that emails are formulated under the guidelines of the policy and email etiquette. Emails containing libellous, defamatory, offensive, racist or obscene material will not be tolerated and may result in legal action.

Blog

In the Coordinator’s area of the website there is a blog. If you have information you wish to share with the members please let your Coordinator know so it can be included. If you need help with this send an email to: webmaster@dragonsabreast.org.au

Remember, as blogging is public, keep the content positive!

Newsletter

Monthly national newsletters are distributed free of charge via email only to allwho have subscribed via our website to receive the newsletter. They are also posted on the website.

To subscribe to the newsletter

Go to the front page of our website, click on ‘Join our Mailing List’

and fill in your details.

Our newsletters are a great form of communication to keep us all connected. We encourage individual members to participate in the newsletter by sending us photographs, personal stories or achievements (both as individual members or for your member group), a quote or anything else which you think may be of interest to others.

Electronic submissions are preferred and need to be sent to newsletter@dragonsabreast.org.au

Some member groups also produce their own newsletters and, if submitted to webmaster@dragonsabreast.com.au in PDF format, will be loaded to the website on the relevant page. We reserve the right of veto if content is considered inappropriate.

7.3 Policy

A policy is a deliberate plan of action to guide decisions and achieve a rational outcome. A policy refers to the process of making important organisational decisions such as management, financial and administrative.

Dragons Abreast has policies covering many areas, including:

Sponsorship and Fundraising

Survivor/Supporter

Official Competition

Acceptance for DAA Membership

Insurance

Intergroup Transfers of Membership

Travel on Official DAA Business

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Member Protection

Email

Approval for use of DAA logo on stationery and merchandise

7.4 Identification Cards

All Dragons Abreast individual members are issued with a photo ID card which comes from the national office. Your coordinator will be able to advise you how to get one.

They are not only used to identify paddlers on race days but may also be used as follows:

• an excellent form of identification for fund raising and media as they prove whoyou are

• lend credibility and show professionalism when you are representing DragonsAbreast

• in some areas there are member discounts from suppliers on production of ID

• a monthly draw takes place nationally and there is prize for the lucky winner

Your first ID card is free, subsequent ones (if misplaced or lost) cost $25.00 each.

7.5 Merchandise Several member groups have chosen to create and sell DAA merchandise items nationally as a source of fundraising. For the formulation and execution of ideas and the selling of merchandise, contact the National office.

There are numerous items available to purchase including A Dragon’s Tale which is the history of Dragons Abreast in Australia, it is beautifully illustrated and highly recommended reading.

Comments from our reviewers

A Dragon’s Tale is a fabulous book that captures the vibrant and poignant history of Dragons Abreast in Australia. Dragons Abreast provides an understanding support network for women after a diagnosis of breast cancer and dragon boat paddling is a tangible activity that draws out the innate qualities of breast cancer survivors - hope, inspiration, excitement and determination to beat a dreaded disease faced by millions of women around the world. A/Prof. John Boyages, Executive Director, NSW Breast Cancer Institute

This Dragon’s Tale ‘history’ is told in the book in wonderful, magical prose – at times it is almost poetic. No boring chronology here, the history is swift, swirling and eddying, as if on the Dragon’s breath, tail and wings it weaves its way around the country. Chapters start with snapshots about what makes each state unique. There is warmth and humour in the descriptions of the places and of the women and their wonderful boats – and there seems to be a quite competition for the cheesiest (I say this with real admiration) team name – from the all encompassing Pink Ladies to Tickled Pink and Amazon Heart to a yacht race called Simply the Breast! Annabelle Pegrum AM, CEO National Capital Authority ACT

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Dragons Abreast has a formal Email Policy and Email Etiquette notes located inthe Dragons Abreast member group manual and in the Coordinator’s area of the website. Please ask your Coordinator for more information. It is extremelyimportant and vital that emails are formulated under the guidelines of the policy and email etiquette. Emails containing libellous, defamatory, offensive, racist orobscene material will not be tolerated and may result in legal action.

Blog

In the Coordinator’s area of the website there is a blog. If you have information you wish to share with the members please let your Coordinator know so it can be included. If you need help with this send an email to:webmaster@dragonsabreast.org.au

Remember, as blogging is public, keep the content positive!

Newsletter

Monthly national newsletters are distributed free of charge via email only to all who have subscribed via our website to receive the newsletter. They are also posted on the website.

To subscribe to the newsletter

Go to the front page of our website, click on ‘Join our Mailing List’

and fill in your details.

Our newsletters are a great form of communication to keep us all connected. We encourage individual members to participate in the newsletter by sending usphotographs, personal stories or achievements (both as individual members or foryour member group), a quote or anything else which you think may be of interest to others.

Electronic submissions are preferred and need to be sent to volunteer@dragonsabreast.org.au

Some member groups also produce their own newsletters and, if submitted to Dragons Abreast Australia in PDF format, will be loaded to the website on the relevant page. We reserve the right of veto if content is considered inappropriate.

7.3 Policy

A policy is a deliberate plan of action to guide decisions and achieve a rationaloutcome. A policy refers to the process of making important organisationaldecisions such as management, financial and administrative.

Dragons Abreast has policies covering many areas, including:

Sponsorship and Fundraising

Survivor/Supporter

Official Competition

Acceptance for DAA Membership

Insurance

Intergroup Transfers of Membership

Travel on Official DAA Business

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ABN 33 104261 029ACN 104 261 029

GPO Box 1948 Darwin NT 0801Tel: +61-8 89470086 Fax: +61-8 89470087

office@dragonsabreast.com.au www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Application for Individual Membership

To access the latest copy of the Individual Membership Application Form please click the link above.

DRAGONSA B R E A S Twww.dragonsabreast.com.au

Individual Guide to Dragons Abreast

Australia

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement”

Helen Keller

Dragons Abreast Australia

PO Box 36923 Winnellie NT 0821 www.dragonsabreast.com.au

Ph: 1300 889 566

ABN 33 104 261 029

© Dragons Abreast Australia | March 2013