A local father-daughter swim team, Jane and Dr. Peter Couttie, are reflecting on years of training, recovery and their passion for swimming at Mullumbimby Petria Thomas Swimming Pool this Father’s Day.
Jane and Peter regularly train in the water, which has helped Peter make a full recovery following a stroke in the pool in June 2026.
A courageous rescue from his daughter and a fellow patron and four weeks in hospital has left Peter, now 96, determined to challenge himself in the water and return to his career as a competitive Masters Games swimmer.
Peter’s swimming career started after he could no longer run and compete in triathlons. Since then, Peter has been interviewed by ABC News, won five medals for his age group 95-100 in the National Masters Swimming Championships in Brisbane in 2025.
Jane and Peter’s story shows how aquatic exercise at Belgravia Leisure’s community pools like Mullumbimby supports people of all ages and abilities to aid in their recovery after adversity, while improving their mobility and overall wellbeing.
As a community hub, Mullumbimby Pool continues to provide opportunities for connection, inclusion and healthy ageing.
From recovery to remarkable achievement
Peter said it’s never too late to stay active or set new goals.
“At 96, I’m still improving, still learning and still enjoying every minute in the pool.
“The medals were wonderful, but being able to get back in the water after my stroke and keep doing something I love with my daughter means even more.”
Jane said her father’s determination continues to inspire everyone around him.
“Watching Dad return to the pool after his stroke showed me what’s possible when you stay positive and keep moving forward.
“Swimming together has become something really special for us. It’s time we spend supporting each other, celebrating milestones and doing something we both enjoy.”
Inspiring the local community
Nick Rojo, Venue Manager at Mullumbimby Pool, said Jane and Peter embody the positive impact community aquatic venues can have on people’s lives.
“Jane and Peter inspire our local community through their resilience, commitment and positive attitude. They demonstrate that swimming is truly a lifelong activity and that it’s never too late to stay active, build confidence and set new goals.”
“We are proud to provide a welcoming and inclusive space where people of all ages and abilities can improve their health, stay connected with others and enjoy the benefits of being active.”
A lifelong passion for swimming
Swimming is one of the few activities that can be enjoyed at almost every stage of life. Whether training for competition, recovering from illness or simply staying active, aquatic exercise provides physical, social and wellbeing benefits that help people live healthier and more connected lives.
As Peter prepares for his next challenge, he hopes to encourage other older Australians to stay active, remain optimistic and never underestimate what they can achieve.
To learn more about Mullumbimby Pool, visit the website here.
Key facts:
- Peter continues to train regularly at Mullumbimby Petria Thomas Swimming Pool at 96 years of age.
- Following a stroke, Peter has returned to swimming with the support of his daughter Jane.
- Peter won six gold medals at the Masters Games in 2025.
- Jane and Peter regularly train together and credit swimming with strengthening both their health and their relationship.
- Swimming provides a low-impact form of exercise that supports mobility, recovery, healthy ageing and overall wellbeing.
- Mullumbimby Petria Thomas Swimming Pool provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to stay active, connected and engaged in their community.
