As Brisbane continues its countdown to the 2032 Olympic Games, Toowong Rowing Club has reason to celebrate after one of its young athletes earned national selection for an international regatta.
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Year 12 student Harriette O’Dwyer, who trains and competes with Toowong Rowing Club and Sydney University Boat Club, has been selected in Australia’s Under 19 B Team for the 2026 International Rowing Challenge in Michigan, United States.
A milestone for a rising rowing talent
O’Dwyer’s selection follows strong performances across school, club and representative rowing, where she has been recognised as one of Queensland’s leading young coxswains.
A coxswain is responsible for steering the boat, making tactical decisions and coordinating the crew throughout a race. The role demands leadership, composure and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, qualities reflected in O’Dwyer’s selection to the national team.
She took up rowing at the age of 13 after transitioning from gymnastics, bringing with her skills developed through her previous sporting experience. Since then, she has represented Queensland, including helping the Women’s Youth VIII crew win a silver medal earlier this year.
Through her fundraising campaign through the Australian Sports Foundation ahead of the international tour, O’Dwyer said representing Australia in the green and gold has long been an ambition. She also described balancing school with regular travel, training and competition while working with high-performing crews along Australia’s east coast.
The International Rowing Challenge will be held in Michigan from 9 to 16 July, giving Australia’s Under 19 athletes valuable international racing experience as they continue through the national development pathway.
Queensland’s next generation
O’Dwyer is one of five Queensland athletes selected in the Australian Under 19 B Team, alongside Maddi McLaughlin, Oliver Kent, Scott McDonald, and Flynn O’Loughlin.
Rowing Queensland congratulated the group following their selection. The athletes earned their places after consistent performances throughout the domestic season.
Their selection highlights the pathway available through Queensland’s school, club and university rowing programs, with opportunities to progress to national representation.
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For Toowong Rowing Club, O’Dwyer’s selection marks a significant national milestone for one of its young athletes. The upcoming tour to the United States will provide international racing experience as she continues her development within Australia’s rowing pathway.
Published 3-July-2026
