For many families, financial barriers can prevent children from accessing Learn to Swim lessons and developing essential water safety skills.
To help address this challenge, Belgravia Leisure managed venues Knox Leisureworks and Mill Park Leisure have raised more than $5,000 in partnership with the Belgravia Foundation to provide Learn to Swim opportunities for children who may otherwise miss out.
Mill Park Leisure has led a Spin for the Kids fundraising campaign which raised $4,300, surpassing an initial $3,000 fundraising goal. The funds will support provide six months of fully funded Learn to Swim lessons for eight children in the local community.
Meanwhile, a community trivia night and raffle hosted by Knox Leisureworks raised $490, thanks to the support of community members, guests, local businesses and Youth Services at Knox City Council.
These community-led fundraising initiatives are helping remove barriers for families, ensuring more children can access life-saving water safety skills, build confidence in and around the water, and enjoy the benefits of learning to swim.
Mill Park Leisure spins for a cause
The team at Mill Park Leisure hosted high-energy master cycle classes with themed music throughout the fundraiser, alongside a sausage sizzle, raffles and prizes on offer for participants.
Held on Saturday 5 September from 8:00am to 8:00pm, participants could register individually or as part of a team, with a maximum of five participants per team. Dedicated instructors Jane, Carol, Sue, Patricia, Michelle and Amanda donated their time to participate.
Three participants cycled for the full 12 hours: Ali (a team member), Sia and Gavin. Sia and Gavin were rewarded with a 12 month membership prize.
Instructors Carol Andrews, Emilia Anastasio and Sue Mcguane shared:
“Congratulations to those that rode 12 hours for a worthy cause! We are incredibly grateful for each and every person who helped us achieve and surpass our fundraising goal. To the cycle team, thank you for your energy and efforts.”
Mill Park Leisure Venue Manager Ryan Mifsud said the event highlights the power of community support.
“This event was a great way to connect families with swim skills regardless of their financial capacity or circumstance, with the opportunity for local businesses, communities and sponsors to get involved.
“Special thanks to all of our sponsors and prize providers, including Light and Sound, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, Zoggs, Myzone, Mantra Lorne, Ataraxy and Speedo.”
Knox Leisureworks combines community fun with meaningful impact
Knox’s community trivia night featured a range of prizes donated by local businesses, including vouchers from Stay Tuned Physiotherapy, 12-month memberships from Level Up Pickleball and photography packages from Tilnak Art.
The event was supported by Danielle Buszard, Community Engagement Coordinator, Francois Etienette, Sales and Guest Experience Manager, and Luc Patte, Swim Teacher, who worked together to create a fun and engaging evening for participants.
Participant Hayden said the event delivered both entertainment and purpose.
“It was a blast to attend the trivia night at Knox. I had so much fun – the hosts kept us engaged and laughing for the entire event.
“I’m glad to be part of such a positive night for a great cause.”
Belgravia Foundation Executive Officer Damian Gorman said initiatives like these help ensure every child has the opportunity to develop vital water safety skills.
“The Belgravia Foundation is proud to support Belgravia Leisure venues in creating opportunities that remove barriers for children who may otherwise miss out, ensuring more young people can access crucial life-saving skills.”
To learn about the Spin for the Kids fundraiser for Mill Park Leisure, visit the website here.
To learn more about Knox Leisureworks visit the website here and to learn more about Mill Park Leisure, visit the website here.
Key facts:
- Knox Leisureworks and Mill Park Leisure have raised more than $5,000 in partnership with the Belgravia Foundation.
- Knox Leisureworks raised $490 through a community trivia night and raffle.
- Mill Park Leisure has raised $4,300 through its Spin for the Kids fundraising campaign.
- Funds raised will help provide Learn to Swim lessons for children who may face financial barriers.
- The Mill Park Leisure Spin for the Kids event be was held on Saturday 5 September from 8:00am to 8:00pm.
- The Spin for the Kids initiative is funding six months of Learn to Swim lessons for eight children.
- The fundraising efforts support greater access to water safety education, confidence in the water and life-saving skills for children.
