This International Lifeguard Appreciation Day, we’re shining a light on the dedicated professionals who keep the Brisbane Aquatic Centre (BAC) at Sleeman Sports Complex safe every day.
The Sleeman Sports Complex Aquatic team oversee multiple facilities across the BAC almost 365 days of the year, including the 50-metre indoor Olympic pool, 25-metre indoor pool, 50-metre outdoor pool, dive pool and the Geoff Henke Olympic Winter Training Centre ski jump facilities.
Made up on 42 staff, the Aquatic team is highly skilled and trained to prevent incidents before they happen and respond quickly in emergencies.
Sleeman Sports Complex General Manager Alex Hutchison said the team’s vigilance, expertise and calm under pressure can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
“Our lifeguards are the backbone of the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, without them, everything from our learn-to-swim to Olympic athlete training would not be possible,” Mr Hutchison said.
“They are critical to ensuring our doors stay open and the pool remains available to the public, they are the team that give us comfort that our facility is safe for the hundreds of patrons that visit each week.”
The Aquatic team recently received Platinum Pool Endorsement from Royal Life Saving Society Queensland (RLSSQ), a significant recognition is received when a facility achieves highly on safety assessments.
Sleeman Sports Complex Aquatic Manager Richard Talbot said the endorsement acknowledged the excellence of the team and the important work the undertake each time they step into the facility.
"Receiving the endorsement of the Platinum in the platinum Pool Program demonstrates our organisation's commitment to maintaining highly trained lifeguards and being an industry leader in Queensland for compliance and safety," Mr Talbot said.
"I am incredibly proud of what the Aquatic team has achieved over the past three years and look forward to what the future holds for the team."
"The Aquatic team is proud to welcome everyone who visits the BAC, from Learn to Swim participants and elite athletes to children, families and seniors. We are committed to providing the safest possible environment while ensuring every visitor enjoys a positive and memorable experience at our venue."