It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we advise of the passing of Ray Olsson due to illness.

Ollie’s passing is a great loss to his wife Barbara, his family, to the Warrior and dragonboat communities. He was a much-loved member of our club, as a friend, as a committee member, an assistant coach, sweep, paddler at club, State and National levels.

He represented Australia in the Auroras 2017 (13th) IDBF World Nations at Kunming, China winning 4 silver and 2 bronze medals and was the Victorian flag bearer at Auschamps in 2019. He has travelled all around Australia and the world with dragonboating padding several times in China, Hungary and Egypt.

Ollie you were a member of the Warriors and on the committee since inception in 2012. You managed, repaired, and maintained all equipment, built our shed/s and anything else that was needed. You represented the Warriors at every turn. Negotiating the waters with GLUGW and Wodonga Council, liaising with DBV, as the hinging pin for all water preparations at Falls Creek Mile High Regattas, and the Gateway Lakes regattas for Cross Border Championships and AusChamps. You were our assistant coach, sweep, fellow paddler, Aurora and our friend.

Ollie, you always gave everything. You did it with a smile, with kindness, generosity and that grin that said so much more.

Ollie, you will be missed.