By RODNEY STEVENS

newsroom@dailyexaminer.com.au

THOUSANDS of spectators in a carnival-like atmosphere watched Yamba Surf Life Lifesaving Club claim their fourth consecutive Grafton dragon boat races title yesterday on the Clarence River.

Held in Memorial Park on the banks of the Clarence River, the family fun day provided spectators from throughout the North Coast a chance to get a taste of the Jacaranda Festival community spirit.

Fresh from victory, captain-coach of the Yamba lifesavers, Dan Fahey, said he and his team were elated at winning their fourth Grafton dragon boat title.

"All our team are super fit; we have an Australian Surf Life Saving champion and a number of serious athletes who had a great influence on the up and coming youngsters in our team," he said.

"The level of competition amongst the more serious competitors is of great calibre but our team was motivated before the races to do really well."

Dan said the races provided a great event and encouraged members of the community to get a team together and enter next year.

"Next year all of the kids will be back to defend our title," he said.

Captain of the runners-up, Son and Donohoe 'who's ya plumber' team, Ros Donohoe, reflected on the feelings of all who attended, saying it was an excellent time for all the competitors and spectators.

"We will be back next year with the same team," she said.