This month, we thought we’d let the photos do most of the talking because the Masters squad has been everywhere, doing everything, and looking sharper by the week as race season approaches.
That said, here’s the short version before you start scrolling:
Race Season Tune-Up
Training has stepped up a notch as we build towards the Head of the Yarra, with the ever-popular 20-minute erg tests determining the final crew selections. There’s been no shortage of competitive spirit and a few impressive PBs across the group.
Engineering Excellence (Masters Edition)
A handful of strategic adjustments to our steering and cornering techniques have delivered a Brown-inspired performance that even the engineers at Empacher would applaud. Smooth lines, tidy turns, and a boat that finally behaves the way we always claimed it did.
Mercantile Radio Keeps Us Company
October also brought plenty of entertainment off the water, with Rosie Popa joining Drew Ginn on Mercantile Radio. Perfect listening for long drives, long ergs… or long recovery coffees.
Breaking News: Qantas Goes Red & White
In a development we can only assume was directly inspired by Mercantile, Qantas has boldly adopted our colours for its new inflight kit. We’re currently waiting on confirmation of appropriate credit—and ideally a donation the size of a new boat bay. Bergelin is on the case.
Masters XMAX Row.
Save the Date: Thursday morning 18th December 2025
We are planning our XMAS row and last row for the season. We invite you to help us boat four Masters Eights this year. Your participation rewards you with the award of 2025 special edition Masters T shirt and breakfast. Cost $ 20 all inclusive; row, t shirt coffee and croissant. Please RSVP to email invitation or spreadsheet. Go Mercs.
Help us put the MAX in XMAX!
And yes this month really is best told in pictures. See you on the water as we roll into race season.
In Summary
Lots of work.
Lots of progress.
Lots of red and white.
Andrew Rees – Masters Coordinator
