About the project

JEFF SYKES ROWING CENTRE

The proposal to establish a new boat shed (JEFF SYKES ROWING CENTRE) on the Barwon River commenced on Monday 15th March with the demolition of the existing Geelong Rowing Association (GRA) shed and construction of a three bay rowing shed for boat racking and facilities above.

The new boat shed, to replace the existing GRA shed, will provide a building for Rowing Geelong to promote and house rowing equipment with associated change rooms, showers and toilets for males, females and coaches, with the majority of the building’s boat space being used for the use (racking) of school boats, belonging to a minimum of 4 local schools, that currently do not have their own facilities on the riverbank. 

Boat space will also be available for an elite/academy or development rowing association duly registered with the State or National rowing body. Short stays by State, National or Overseas Rowing Teams is also a possibility.

The GRA have named the new boat shed the "Jeff Sykes Rowing Centre". 

Jeff has made an enormous contribution to the sport of rowing in Geelong, Victoria, Australia and overseas both on and off the water. Jeff’s on the water history speaks for itself, with Jeff winning medals at World Rowing, Australian and State Championships, including Jeff winning the Presidents Cup (Interstate Mens Sculling) as a lightweight rower.

Jeff developed Sykes Racing into a world class rowing boat provider and the name Sykes is synonymous with rowing in Geelong. Jeff is still very active in the local rowing community.

Jeff is also a significant donor of funds for the building of the new boat shed. 

The GRA is seeking donations for the building of the new shed. Through the GRA's fundraising partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, donations to the Boatshed project are tax-deductible and can be made here by clicking on the donate button.

The GRA is already holding approximately $950,000 in a special building account, with promises to take this amount to over $1,200,000 as construction commences. This means a multi-use all schools rowing facility in Geelong is a reality. Please help us to have this project completed in 2021.

Please share this page with your members, rowing associates, former members, and anyone who you feel may consider making a donation towards this fantastic enhancement for the sport of rowing in Geelong.

Thank you

Sam Elliott , Brain Digby and Ian Farran

President GRA Inc. Secretary GRA Inc. Treasurer  GRA Inc.