Rebecca Gribble (2003)
Rowing has always been more than a sport for Rebecca Gribble (2003). It has shaped lifelong friendships, provided career opportunities and ultimately brought her back to the place where her passion first began, Ballarat Grammar.
While rowing and horses were Rebecca's two great passions at school, it was horses that first became her career. After an injury brought her competitive rowing aspirations to an end following a brief stint at the Melbourne University Boat Club, she spent eight years training racehorses in Ballarat before focusing on family life and raising her three children.
With three children and a growing interest in staying active, Rebecca discovered a new challenge through running. However, missing the competitive aspect of sport eventually drew her back to rowing. Partnering with fellow Old Grammarian Clare Martin Ventura (2002), the pair enjoyed considerable success, winning State and Masters National titles together and reigniting Rebecca's love for the sport.
That return to rowing also opened the door to a new career. A role at St Patrick's College saw Rebecca combine her passion for rowing with her desire to support and mentor young people, an experience she describes as incredibly rewarding.
While there were many performance highlights during her time leading a successful rowing program, it was the connections formed with students and families that left the greatest impression.
"The support of the wider rowing community is something very unique," Rebecca reflects. "It's incredibly rewarding to help young people achieve their goals and dreams while sharing a passion for the sport."
Rebecca's own rowing journey began at Ballarat Grammar after discovering old photographs of her father, Bill Gribble, rowing for the School. Living opposite Lake Wendouree and drawn to sports that involved racing rather than traditional team games, rowing was a natural fit. The excitement surrounding Head of the Lake only strengthened her determination to be part of the program.
Having rowed from Year 7 through to Year 12, returning to Ballarat Grammar as both a staff member and Old Grammarian is something Rebecca describes as difficult to put into words.
"So much has changed and developed, yet it still feels the same," she says. "Since returning to rowing, I always kept a close eye on Ballarat Grammar and knew that one day I would love the opportunity to return and lead the program that gave so much to me."
Looking ahead, Rebecca is focused on fostering a positive and inclusive culture where every student enjoys their time at the rowing shed and feels part of something special. While competitive success remains important, her priority is ensuring that every crew member has a rewarding and memorable experience.
"The Head of the Lake creates lifelong memories for young rowers," she says. "Winning is always a bonus, but it's about making sure every student makes the most of the opportunity and enjoys the journey."
Reflecting on her own time at Grammar, Rebecca is grateful for the influence of several teachers and mentors who helped shape her experience. In particular, she credits legendary rowing coach Sam Hutchison as her biggest mentor, describing him as one of the most dedicated people she has ever met. He continues to coach and support her today, and she says much of her rowing knowledge can be attributed to his guidance.
Rebecca also acknowledges the support of Doug Rose and Rob Gray,as both were heavily involved in the rowing program during her time at school, as well as Paula Nankervis, who encouraged her athletic talents and believed she had the potential to pursue athletics or hockey at a higher level.
As Rebecca leads the next chapter of Ballarat Grammar rowing, she brings with her not only a wealth of experience but also a genuine appreciation for the community, friendships and opportunities that rowing can create.
Acknowledgement of Country
Ballarat and Queen’s Anglican Grammar School acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn, live and work, the Wadawurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Commitment to Child Safety
Ballarat Grammar maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of child abuse and actively implements measures to identify and manage any risks of harm to students within our school environment. The care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people are central and fundamental responsibilities of the School. We are firmly committed to fostering a child-safe culture that provides an environment where students are safe and feel safe, where their participation is valued, their views respected, and their voices heard in decisions that affect their lives. Ballarat Grammar values diversity and strictly prohibits any racist or discriminatory practices. All members of our school community share the responsibility to care for children and young people by promptly raising any concerns regarding their safety, promoting their wellbeing, and protecting them from all forms of harm or abuse.
