For Kathy and Elliot, living with vision loss hasn’t stopped them from embracing adventure, building strength, and finding community – most recently through the sport of Dragon Boating. Their stories are a testament to resilience, inclusion, and the power of trying something new.
Kathy was officially diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease in her twenties, though her vision challenges began much earlier in childhood. Legally blind since the age of 16, she has navigated a diverse career path from hospitality to accessibility consulting and continues to work remotely from Tasmania as an adaptive technology trainer. But it was once she found Dragon Boating, she found her true calling.
Introduced to the sport through a corporate event in New South Wales, Kathy became a founding member of the Deep Water Dragons club. “Everyone has a role to play on the boat,” she says. “You just need to master your position and work as a team.” For Kathy, the sport offers more than physical benefits – it’s a social lifeline, a place of camaraderie, and a gateway to new friendships. Her sights are now set on representing Australia at the 2027 Dragonboat World Championships in Hong Kong, preparing for selection in 2026.
Elliot’s journey began more recently, after discovering Dragon Boating through a Come and Try Day with the North Esk Dragon Boat Club. At 15, Elliot underwent brain surgery that resulted in permanent vision loss and partial paralysis on his left side. Now studying theatre at the University of Tasmania, he’s worked hard to rebuild strength and confidence.
Dragon Boating has been his first team sport, and while he was initially hesitant, the club’s inclusive culture helped him feel supported from day one. “They’ve helped me problem-solve ways to participate safely,” Elliot shares. With a specialised glove to secure his paddle and guidance from teammates, he’s found both independence and belonging in this welcoming group.
To ensure safe access to the boat and club facilities, both Kathy and Elliot have received Orientation & Mobility support from VisAbility Tasmania, including tailored training from O&M Specialist Jodi Prentice. Jodi worked closely with Elliot to map out the terrain around the club, helping him navigate uneven surfaces and feel confident moving independently. This kind of personalised support is central to VisAbility’s approach – empowering individuals to engage fully in the activities they choose and love.
Their advice to others? “Just give it a go,” says Kathy. “Be open-minded and embrace the social and mobility benefits.” Elliot agrees: “If you never try, you’ll never know if you love it.” Dragon Boating has given them both a renewed sense of freedom and a reminder that with the right support, you really can do anything you set your mind to.
Dragon Boating is one of several accessible sports in Tasmania, including Blind Cricket and Blind Golf. Reach out to Blind Sports Australia for other sporting groups that may be available near you.
If you’d like some support to access sporting or social groups near you, VisAbility can help. Reach out to our team by phone 6232 1222 or email info@visabilitytas.com.au