You might assume that the most read Belgravia Leisure stories of 2024 would be all about fitness trends or the latest wellness hacks.
Well, think again, because the real wins this year weren’t measured in laps or reps, they were measured in the smiles of our people, the breaking down of barriers and the communities Belgravia Leisure has built across Australia and New Zealand where EVERYONE feels they belong. Yep, that’s right, our top five stories of the year were almost all related to our dedicated work in access and inclusion.
From history-making awards to stories that captured our hearts and headlines, our teams have been driving change and setting new standards for access and inclusion. And if 2024 is anything to go off, it’s clear that when it comes to making people feel seen, heard and supported… we are just getting started!
At number one is Taylor “Chip” Hanson who became the first person with Down Syndrome to win the prestigious Swim Teacher of the Year award in 2024. The Liverpool Region also earned the Diversity and Inclusion Award for their commitment to uplifting marginalised communities and Zach Byrnes was named Emerging Leader of the Year for his innovative work in Central West NSW.
In 2024, we published four articles documenting Chip’s journey as he achieved his dream of becoming a qualified Teacher of Swimming & Water Safety at Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre. Chip was also featured in The Daily Telegraph for his advocacy for the inclusion of athletes with Down Syndrome in the Paralympics. Chip continues to raise awareness and inspire others, proving that with the right support, we can all achieve our dreams.
- Read more here.
2. Belgravia cheers on Paralympic Athletes for Paris and outfits team for victory
The 2024 Paralympics had us all on the edge of our seats, with every race, our hearts raced right along with our athletes. Coming home with three medals, we couldn’t be prouder of the incredible performances of our Paralympic heroes.
Jesse Aungles, training at Canberra Olympic Pool and his team made history with a gold in the 4×100 Mixed Medley Relay, setting a new Paralympic record. Ahmed Kelly, who trains at WaterMarc, claimed a silver medal in the 150m Individual Medley (SM3) and our very own Ricky Betar, a lifeguard at Burpengary Regional Aquatic & Leisure Centre, brought home a bronze in the Men’s 200m Individual Medley.
Belgravia Apparel has also outfitted the entire Australian Paralympic team with high-performance gear, ensuring athletes have the best equipment to succeed.
3. Melbourne Airport’s First Health Club and Wellness Centre Higher State
Imagine heading to the airport and instead of just waiting around for your flight, you could enjoy a spa day or a workout session. That’s exactly what Higher State offers, which lands as number three on our most-read articles for 2024. This unique venue at Melbourne Airport provides a wellness experience for travellers, staff and locals, giving you the perfect space to relax, recharge and feel great while on the go.
4. Burpengary’s Ricky Betar’s journey to the Paralympics
Ricky is back at number four on our most-read articles for 2024. His inspiring journey captured hearts as the Burpengary team rallied to raise funds to bring his mum, Nori, to the 2024 Paralympics in Paris.
Competing in multiple events, Ricky, who lives with autism and ADHD, earned a well-deserved bronze medal. With the support of his family and community, his mum, Nori, was there to cheer him on, along with his dad and sister.
Ricky’s inspiring story was featured on 10 News First and Channel Nine, making it a truly proud moment for Ricky, his family and the entire community that supported him along the way.
5. Cancer patient finds newfound lease on life through Immersion Therapy at WaterMarc
Tim Buckley’s inspiring journey is number five on our most-read articles for 2024. Despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Tim has found a renewed lease on life through Immersion Therapy at WaterMarc. After years of mobility challenges, this therapy has been life-changing for him.
Thanks to his sessions with accredited Exercise Physiologist Adrian, Tim has overcome both physical limitations and fears, learning to walk not only in the pool but on land as well, gaining a newfound sense of freedom and joy. Recently, he even went paragliding during a holiday!
Looking back on 2024, it’s clear that it was a year all about inclusivity, support and the strength of community. At Belgravia Leisure, we’re proud to be part of the journey, helping incredible people and communities thrive whilst bringing leisure to life.
- Explore our career opportunities.
- Learn more about our people.
