Most Sunday mornings, a dedicated group of rowers from Marlo can be found gliding through the water in their St Ayles Skiff, the Da Mirrie Dancer.
This handcrafted boat, built by local craftsman Dave Craigie, has seen its share of triumphs, including a victory at the national championships in Warnambool back in 2019.
Last Sunday, however, the crew’s outing took an unexpected turn.
Facing blustery conditions on the water, the rowers decided to navigate up to the top of The Slips, near Snowy River Station.
As they made their way through the calm but challenging waters, they spotted something unusual – a black and white dog, partially submerged and tangled in debris.
The crew quickly moved into action, working together to carefully free the elderly dog from the water.
Once they had safely pulled the dog onto their boat, they sought help from a nearby camper, who hurried to Snowy River Station.
To their relief, the group soon learned that the dog, named Cracker, belonged to local residents Gab and Andrew French.
The 16-year-old canine had been missing for a day and a half, with evidence suggesting Cracker had been trapped in the water for more than 24 hours.
Andrew and Gab were absolutely relieved to have their beloved dog reunited.
The Marlo rowing crew were pleased to have been in the right place at the right time.
“It’s just such a feel good story,” said Mark Reeves, who is one of the keen rowers.
For the rowers and the French family, last Sunday’s outing will be remembered not just for the wind and waves, but for a rescue that turned a regular row into a lifesaving mission.
