It was a proud evening for Belgravia Leisure’s New South Wales teams, who took home five prestigious awards at the 2025 Aquatic and Recreation Industry (ARI) Awards of Excellence, held at Sydney Olympic Park on Thursday 16th October.
Designed to recognise the people, programs and facilities making a real impact in the aquatic and recreation industry, the prestigious awards celebrate inspiring leaders to innovative initiatives.
These wins reflect Belgravia Leisure’s strong commitment to inclusive programs, youth development and excellence in aquatics and fitness. With a fourth consecutive win in the Emerging Leader category, Belgravia Leisure continues to show how community-focused initiatives can make a real difference across the state.
The awards recognised the outstanding work of several venues and individuals across Liverpool venues Michael Wendon Aquatic Leisure Centre and Whitlam Leisure Centre, ACT venues Lakeside Leisure Centre and Gungahlin Leisure Centre, as well as City of Sydney venue Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre.
Michael Wendon Aquatic Leisure Centre received the Diversity and Inclusion Award for their Gandangara Aboriginal Learn to Swim program. This initiative helps First Nations children build essential water safety skills while celebrating cultural identity.
Wishy Murimba Community Engagement Coordinator at Michael Wenden proudly accepted the award.
“The Learn to Swim program champions cultural pride, safety and creates opportunities for First Nations communities. We’re honoured to be recognised for our work on this initiative,” said Hamish Sherwood, Venue Manager, Michael Wendon Aquatic Leisure Centre.
The Children’s Program of the Year Award went to the Gymnastics program at Whitlam Leisure Centre, which continues to inspire movement, confidence and fun for kids of all abilities.
“We see kids grow on a daily basis not just in skill, but in self-belief,” said Tahnee Hart, Venue Manager, Whitlam Leisure Centre. “This award is a celebration of every tumble, cartwheel and smile from the kids.”
Recognised for her infectious energy and commitment to aquatic fitness, Sandra McAveney (right) from Lakeside Leisure Centre was named Aqua Instructor of the Year. On winning the award Sandra commented, “I love seeing people leave my classes feeling stronger and happier; this win wouldn’t be possible without the amazing community we have in the water at Lakeside LC”.
Christina Wong from Gungahlin Leisure Centre was awarded Swim Teacher of the Year for her exceptional teaching and care. Christina said that helping people feel safe and confident in the water is incredibly rewarding and she’s immensely proud to pass on such a vital life skill.
Lastly, Isabella Clifton from Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre won the Emerging Leader Award, continuing Belgravia Leisure’s four-year winning streak in this category. Isabella commented that “leadership is about listening, learning and supporting others, and I’m proud to be part of a team that invests in its people and creates meaningful change”.
With a growing legacy of innovation, inclusion and leadership, Belgravia Leisure’s New South Wales teams continue to set the benchmark for what community recreation can achieve. Whether it’s through gymnastics, swimming or culturally responsive programming, these venues are helping communities thrive.
A huge congratulations to all the finalists and everyone who was recognised on the night. To see the impact for yourself, visit your local Belgravia Leisure venue.
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