Race down the Darling DPR/TV/1589

Army muscle power and skill finally conquered the mighty Darling River, Australia's second longest river. More than 100 soldiers from 1 Task Force, Holsworthy, near Sydney, NSW, turned sailors recently and paddled more than 300 miles from Wilcannia to Menindee. The final stage of the 300 mile race down the Darling River by soldiers in aluminium assault boats. The 11 craft and their seven man crews pushed off from below the main weir to paddle the last 15 miles into Menindee. Styles had improved drastically during the race with most teams gaining a professional smoothness. The fastest rowing team was 2 Cavalry Regiment who won the last stage of the race. Originally intended to take 10 days to paddle the distance the Army teams cut the time to eight days. The race was designed as a test of competitive physical endurance and sustained teamwork. The Darling was in flood during the race and the meandering nature of the river led to the crews carrying their craft across land to cut off the long loops. Sometimes these short cuts failed. Makeshift sails were also allowed and helped ease the backs of the crewmen. Each craft was in radio contact with a safety boat as well as with a ground party. Menindee was reached shortly after 1 p.m. on December 4 1973 when the boat crewed by members of 2 Cavalry Regiment touched the bank in front of the Race Director Captain David Meade of 1 Transport Company. Then came congratulations and more importantly cold drinks. The race was won by 1 Field Engineer Regiment with a loss of 14 points. 2 Cavalry Regiment came second with the loss of 16 points and 171 Air Cavalry Flight came third with the loss of 22 points. Points were awarded for the positions each craft finished at each stage of the race. Also identified: 2nd Lieutenant T. Summers of 171 Air Cavalry Flight.