Drumming up the water spirits

After the ceremony, the Launceston Dragon Boat took to the water.
Aboard are 20 paddlers and a drummer in the bow and sweep in the stern.
The paddlers keep time to the sound of the drum.
It is the drum which ensures the water spirits know that the dragon boat if coming.
On our second paddle, our distinguished monk was delighted to take his place in the bow to drum up the water spirits.
Also on board are the paddles invaluable coaches - the two Pauls.
Photo: Coutesy of Barbara or Beaconsfield