We are overjoyed to express our deep gratitude to the engineering students and staff from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) AT Hub for their innovative work in adaptive technology, which has transformed rowing for our club members with unique needs. This incredible team has gone above and beyond, crafting specialized devices that enable rowers like Matilda to participate fully in the sport they love.
Matilda, a long-time rower at the Community Rowing Club, has always dreamed of rowing in a single scull with both oars. Born with two fingers on her left hand, she previously rowed only in “sweep” boats. Thanks to a custom-designed prosthetic and oar rotation device created by UNSW’s all-female engineering team, she now rows with two oars in her own boat. This breakthrough not only empowers Matilda but also paves the way for countless others with similar challenges to experience the joy and freedom of rowing independently.
In addition to Matilda’s device, the AT Hub team has developed other assistive equipment, such as a footplate for rowers with leg prosthetics and a customized seat that supports our para-rowers comfortably on the water. These students have worked directly with our rowers, taking the time to understand each individual’s unique needs. The thoughtfulness and dedication they have shown are truly inspiring.
We were thrilled when SBS reached out to feature this story in their Small Business Secrets series. Their interest reflects the significant impact of the AT Hub team’s work, not only for our club but for the wider community of adaptive athletes. This coverage shines a light on the importance of creating accessible spaces in sports and highlights the power of collaboration in overcoming barriers. You can read the full story here: Matilda wants to row with two hands. This new technology will help reach her goal – SBS.
At the Community Rowing Club, we are proud to witness such innovative progress, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds. Thank you, UNSW AT Hub, for your extraordinary contribution to making rowing accessible and for helping us foster a truly inclusive community on the water. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing this journey together!
