#ARC25 Volunteer of the Day: van der Poll Family

In 2024 the van der Poll family were at a regatta in Melbourne when they overheard the need for volunteers at the Australian Rowing Championships (#ARC24) in Penrith. Barend and Ariel van der Poll (father and daughter) decided to step up, quickly book flights and headed to Sydney to be a part of the volunteer group. 

Enjoying their experience, Barend and Ariel decided they wanted to come to Tasmania’s #ARC25, booking their flights and accommodation as soon as they returned from #ARC24. This time they are joined by mother Charlotte and little brother Neo, making it a full family affair.

The Geelong-based family has been involved in rowing since Ariel signed up four seasons ago, with Barend serving as a Boat Race Official for the past two years.

When visiting Tasmania in 2022, the van der Poll family made a special trip to the Lake Barrington International Rowing Course where Ariel dreamt of one day competing. This week that came true as she is set to compete for Banks Rowing Club in a variety of races before she dives back into volunteering over the weekend. 

Mother Charlotte, sees volunteering with her family as a way of showing her children how it's those who give and show up, that make this sport possible. 

“They [volunteers] are such great role models to show to the athletes that it's not just about what the sport gives to you, it's about the whole support network,” Charlotte said.  

Neo is the youngest volunteer (11) at #ARC25, and loves being involved with rowing because of the amazing volunteers he gets to spend time with and places he visits.

Being in a wheelchair, the family are grateful that as sports become more accessible, so does the support network allowing Neo to have the opportunity to volunteer.

He currently works in spectator services, but plans to do some timekeeping and boat holding later this week.

As well as volunteering, Neo is the most supportive brother, looking forward to watching his big sister Ariel’s eight race the most.  

Stay connected and immerse in the action at #ARC25. For real-time updates and live results, click here. Don’t miss a moment – watch the action on our live stream as it unfolds on our YouTube channel. For more information, visit our official #ARC25 Website. Photos from the regatta are available at: https://www.australianrowingimages.com/

#StrongerTogether | #ARC25