IRB Christening - Mother Duck

Published: December 15, 2022

When it came to a decision on the name of our newest IRB Boat it was a unanimous decision to name a boat after our beloved Sharleen Swan - fondly known to many as “Mother Duck”.

Life Member Sharleen Swan has been in integral part of the Coolum Beach Surf Life Saving Club, clocking over more than 30 years as an official for Surf Life Saving and has been an official for IRB Racing since the sport started in Queensland. Not only does Sharleen officiate for IRB’s she also does officiating for surf sports activities, is a keen supporter of the Board Riding Team and has been the club’s Surf Sports Officer.

Without her dedication and volunteering as an official, many of us would not be able to compete. Sharleen is well known and loved throughout the life saving movement, especially here in Queensland, and very much adored by the IRB Racing Team.

The boat naming ceremony for the IRB Boat named ‘Mother Duck’ was well received by all - thankyou to all who attended. Congratulations Sharleen!!

 The following traditional poem was used for toasting at the ceremony:

“For thousands of years, we have gone to sea. We have crafted vessels to carry us and we have called them by name. These ships will nurture and care for us through perilous seas, and so we affectionately call them "she." To them we toast, and ask to celebrate Seas the Day.

*Toast* To the Sailors of Old…To ‘Mother Duck’

The moods of the sea are many, from tranquil to violent. We ask that this ship be given the strength to carry on. The keels are strong and she keeps out the pressures of the sea

*Toast* To the Sea...To the Sailors of Old...To The Sea!

Today we come to name this lady ‘Mother Duck’ and send her to sea to be cared for, and to care for all crew that board her. We ask the sailors of old and the mood of God that is the sea to accept ‘Mother Duck’ as her name, to help her through her passages, and allow her to return with her crew safely.

*Toast* To the Sea...To the Sailors Before Us…to ‘Mother Duck’

Congratulations Sharlene Swan”