Glenelg’s Stamford Grand hosted more than 250 participants from swim schools all over the country to celebrate the Australian Swim Schools national excellence award.
The Australian Swim Schools Association hosts the awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in nine categories, including growth, talent, sustainability, and inclusion.
Four recipients were also inducted into ASSA Hall of Fame as a result of their outstanding contributions to the industry. John and Barbara Carew were awarded the Pioneer award as a recognition of their contributions to grassroots swimming in Queensland. Barbara still teaches at the age of 80 and has not missed one swim term in fifty years. David, their son, has taken over the running John Carew Swim School, Indooroopilly in Queensland.
Barbara accepted the award on behalf John and herself. She was “utterly stunned” and “speechless” at the time.
Geoff and Debbie Gill were inducted into ASSA’s Hall of Fame. They received an award for outstanding contributions to the industry in recognition of their contribution in founding Geelong’s most recognizable swim school.
Rebecca Ross, who was awarded the Emerging Talent Award for her leadership and exemplary results at the swim school, was also a notable winner.
Parafield Gardens Swim School (SA), received the Inclusive Swimming Award. Its Angelfish program teaches children with developmental, physical or behavioral difficulties. The Women’s Afghan swimming program teaches vital swimming skills to refugees.
Emily McNeill, ASSA general manager, stated that “the strength of this year’s nominations is testament to the incredible work of our member schools in all categories and is indicative of how the industry is continually improving and maturing.”
Here is the complete list of award winners:
Parafield Gardens Swim School (SA), SAFER Swimming Award (Berrydale Swim School, VIC) Inclusive Swimming Award
Community Service Award – Blue Dolphin Swim School (SA).
Outstanding Growth Award – Little Snappers Swim School (QLD)
Emerging Talent Award – Rebecca Ross (WA)
International Swim School Award – D Swim Academy Malaysia
Sustainability Award – SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre & Paul Sadler Carrum Downs & Paul Sdler Swimland Westgate (SA & VIC).
Swim School Award – Swim ARCademy (WA)
The ceremony was held in conjunction with ASSA’s annual conference, which saw more than 350 people from all over the country gather to discuss strategies, innovation, and sustainability.
IMAGE SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre award winners
SPLASH! Magazine published the post Australian Swim Schools National Award Winners Announced. Magazine.
