Drums beating, crowds cheering, big smiles and happy chatter - it was all happening at Lake Canobolas on Saturday as dragon boaters from Sydney, Hawkesbury, Wagga, Dubbo, Bathurst, Forbes, Lithgow, Mudgee and Orange converged on the Lake for the Western Region Dragon Boat Regatta.

The record number of Community Teams participating were urged on by supporters - and total strangers alike - watching from the shore.

There were some spectacular results among the Community teams with ability of paddlers ranging from almost non existent to pretty darn good. One thing for sure  - all teams improved as the day wore on.  The Old Swim Squad took out first place of the Communtiy teams

Surprise of the day was Community Team " Licorice All Sorts".  A group of individuals brought together in days prior to the regatta, never trained together, some been in dragon boat only once before, just out for a fun day messing about on dragon boats  - and what did they do - take out 3rd place.

Sweeps were challenged as they coped with some undergrowth in Lane 1, but all dealt with it as only dragon boaters can.

FFB, a Sydney based team took out 1st for the Sport Mixed category,    FFB and Pan Dragons Bathurst combined to take out the Womens (sports clubs) , while FFB took out the Mens 10.

Students of James Sheahan High, being the only school team entered, competed against  seniors and gave sports clubs teams a run for their money, including winners FFB, by gaining 3rd place in the final of Mens 10.Drums beating, crowds cheering, big smiles and happy chatter - it was all happening at Lake Canobolas on Saturday as dragon boaters from Sydney, Hawkesbury, Wagga, Dubbo, Bathurst, Forbes, Lithgow, Mudgee and Orange converged on the Lake for the Western Region Dragon Boat Regatta.