Sydney stages biggest Dragon Boat race in southern hemisphere

More than 3,000 paddlers from around Australia are taking part in the annual Dragon Boat races at Sydney's Darling Harbor over the weekend.

The biggest Dragon Boat race in the southern hemisphere draws more than 3,000 paddlers to Sydney's Darling Harbor as part of the city's Chinese New Year Festival. [Photo: China Plus/Zhang Qizhi]

Spectators line Cockle Bay Wharf to witness the spectacular 12-meter Dragon Boats battle it out in the 200m race.

The two-day regatta is the biggest Dragon Boat event in the southern hemisphere. The more than 100 races cater to teams from sports clubs, as well as corporate and charity teams.

The biggest Dragon Boat race in the southern hemisphere draws more than 3,000 paddlers to Sydney's Darling Harbor as part of the city's Chinese New Year Festival. [Photo: China Plus/Zhang Qizhi]

The Dragon Boat races have been a highlight of the City of Sydney's Chinese New Year Festival for the last 22 years. The event kicks off with an 'eye-dotting ceremony,' a Taoist tradition that blesses the waters to ensure a safe weekend of racing. The dragon is 'awakened' by dabbing red paint onto the eyes of the figurehead of each boat.

Lion dances at an eye-dotting ceremony before the races start. [Photo: China Plus/Zhang Qizhi]

Each boat is decorated to feature the head and tail of a dragon. A drummer at the head of the boat sets the pace for the team of 22 rowers.

Originating in the rivers of southern China as part of a traditional ceremony to encourage prosperous rains, Dragon Boat racing has evolved into a fast-paced water sport.

Paddlers enjoy the celebration of the eye-dotting ceremony. [Photo: China Plus/Zhang Qizhi]

Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, says the Dragon Boat races are an excellent way for people of all ages to celebrate the Lunar New Year: "It's wonderful to see this ancient Chinese tradition brought to life in our very own Darling Harbor, where families will line the foreshore to enjoy the thrill of the races. The participants have worked very hard to get there, and serve as an inspiration to others."

The biggest Dragon Boat race in the southern hemisphere draws more than 3,000 paddlers to Sydney's Darling Harbor as part of the city's Chinese New Year Festival. [Photo: China Plus/Zhang Qizhi]

There are over sixty Dragon Boat clubs scattered around the waterways of New South Wales, where Sydney is the state capital. Dragon Boats NSW, the state's governing body for the sport, has more than 3,200 members.