Aquatics Only

Aquatics Only

Immerse yourself into the world of aquatics with David Stennett and Luke Daly on the premier podcast dedicated exclusively to the aquatics industry. Whether you're commuting or on the go, tune in to stay informed, engaged, and entertained with the latest insights, trends, and stories from the aquatic space. This is your go-to source for everything aquatics!

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Episodes

Live, Laugh, Swim.
Nov 25 2024
Live, Laugh, Swim.
In this lively episode of Aquatics Only, David and Luke bring you a jam-packed session from the Kawana Aquatics Center on the Sunshine Coast. Join the duo as they banter about the end-of-year rush, dive into water safety with legendary swimming coach Laurie Lawrence and his daughter Emma, and explore the Kids Alive Do The Five campaign. With insights on community swimming initiatives, an exclusive remix debut by DJ Cyril, and some festive fun, this episode is a must-listen for aquatics enthusiasts. AO, let’s go!Show NotesEpisode Highlights:Opening Banter:David and Luke reflect on nearing double-digit episodes and the year-end rush.A shoutout to Hot 91.1's live broadcast and the community vibes at Kawana Aquatics Center.Guest Spotlight:Laurie Lawrence & Emma Lawrence:Laurie discusses the impact of the Kids Alive Do The Five campaign.Emma shares updates on new initiatives, including a remixed anthem by DJ Cyril.Insights into water safety, drowning prevention, and the importance of swim schools.Aquatic Industry Insights:The value of Brisbane’s $2 Summer Swim program.Discussion on swim schools’ role in shaping future champions and promoting water safety.Reflections on the aquatics industry’s mission to make swimming accessible and enjoyable for all.Fun Additions:Luke and David propose a Brisbane $2 swim tour, complete with a coffee matrix.The idea of a summer swim anthem playlist emerges—get ready for Aquatics Only to make waves!Key Takeaways:Swimming is a vital life skill, especially in Australia’s water-rich environment.Community programs and partnerships, like Kids Alive and council initiatives, are critical for promoting water safety.End-of-year reflections highlight the joy and responsibility the aquatics industry brings to families and communities.Call to Action:Follow Kids Alive on social media to hear the new remix and support water safety initiatives.Share your thoughts on what makes a perfect swim facility for Luke and David’s $2 swim tour!Help us create the ultimate swim anthem playlist—drop your suggestions in the comments or on LinkedIn!Closing Note:Stay safe, enjoy the water, and remember that what we do in aquatics makes a world of difference. Join us next time for our final episode of the year!
Paralympic Special Edition & SPLASH! Recap
Sep 9 2024
Paralympic Special Edition & SPLASH! Recap
In this episode of Aquatics Only, we dive into the world of aquatic sports and inclusivity with two engaging interviews. Our first guest is Matthew Haanappel OAM, Paralympic gold medalist and aquatics manager. Matthew shares his personal journey, his experiences in the Paralympics, and his work promoting inclusivity within aquatics. The second half of the episode features Declan Gillard- Martin, discussing the SPLASH! Trade Expo 2024.Highlights:Interview with Matthew Haanappel:Matthew's journey: From starting in water therapy as a child to winning gold at the Paralympic Games.Paralympic Games Impact: How the Paralympics have grown and the pivotal moments, particularly after the London 2012 Games.Inclusion and Ability: Matthew emphasises the importance of focusing on what people with disabilities can do and how swim schools can be more inclusive.Looking forward: Matthew shares his passion for creating talent pathways for the next generation of Paralympians and fostering inclusivity in aquatics.SPLASH! Trade Expo 2024 with Declan Gillard-Martin:Event Overview: A recap of one of the biggest aquatic industry expos in the Southern Hemisphere.Industry Trends: Discussion on the event’s impact and the importance of collaboration within the aquatics industry.Future of Splash Expo: Insights into what’s in store for 2026 and how the event can further bridge different sectors of the industry.Key Quotes:"We’re not just talking about change, we’re living it." — Matthew Haanappel"Inclusion is a priority for the aquatics industry, and we need to focus on community and equity for all." — Matthew Haanappel"SPLASH! Expo has grown into something truly global, and we're only getting started." — Declan Gillard MartinResources:Learn more about the Paralympic Games and their history: Paralympics Official WebsiteDiscover more about Splash Expo 2024 and upcoming events: SPLASH! Trade ExpoStay Connected:Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content and updates.
Uniting the Aquatics Industry: A Conversation with Martin Sheppard
Aug 29 2024
Uniting the Aquatics Industry: A Conversation with Martin Sheppard
In this episode, host Luke is joined by Martin Sheppard, co-founder and owner of the National Sports Convention, and a veteran with over 45 years of experience in the aquatics and recreation industry. Martin shares his extensive background, starting as a pool lifeguard in the UK to managing multiple leisure facilities across Australia. Together, they discuss the recent ARNA meeting and the crucial need for a united voice within the industry to better influence government policy and funding.Key Topics Discussed:Martin’s Background: Martin recounts his journey from being a pool lifeguard to becoming a key figure in the aquatics industry, managing leisure centres, and contributing to national sports initiatives.Purpose of the ARNA Meeting: Martin explains the objective of the ARNA meeting, which was to explore whether the industry needs a single, united voice to effectively communicate with government bodies and secure funding.Challenges and Opportunities: The discussion highlights the fragmentation within the industry and the missed opportunities due to the lack of a unified message. Martin emphasises the importance of aligning the industry's goals with government agendas, particularly in areas like health promotion, crime prevention, and community development.Case Studies: Martin shares examples of successful community initiatives, including a social value assessment project in Brimbank, Victoria, and a crime reduction program in Liverpool, UK, both of which demonstrate the significant impact of aquatics and recreation programs on local communities.Next Steps for the Industry: Martin outlines the immediate next steps for the industry, including forming a small working group to create a clear, concise document that articulates the industry's size, impact, and alignment with government priorities. This document will be used to engage with government officials and advocate for the sector.
Depth Matters
Aug 26 2024
Depth Matters
Welcome back to Aquatics Only, the podcast dedicated to all things aquatics! In our second episode, hosts David Stennett and Luke Daly dive deep into the expansive world of aquatics, exploring everything from the industry's definition to its most intriguing dynamics.We kick off by clarifying what the aquatics industry truly encompasses, with the help of ChatGPT. David and Luke then take us on a journey through their experiences at the LIWA Conference in Perth, where they encountered some truly unique aquatic facilities, including a fascinating sideways pool at Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre.The conversation takes a turn as they discuss the phenomenon of the "Aqua Ladies" – the often formidable regulars at aquatic centres who are known for their high standards and, sometimes, fierce feedback. This leads to an exploration of the importance of community in aquatics, highlighting the critical role of long-term staff and the vibrant engagement found at facilities across Perth.Listeners are also treated to exclusive interviews with Olympic swimming legend Michael Klim and Fluidra Commercial's Jeremy Smith. Klim shares his insights on what makes a 50-metre pool "fast" and the impact of pool depth on performance, while Smith delves into the logistics and considerations of modular pools, especially in the context of major events like the Olympics.The episode wraps up with a thought-provoking discussion on the future of aquatics facilities, particularly in light of the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics, and the importance of engaging industry experts in the planning and design phases of these significant projects.