Peninsula Leisure has underscored its commitment to excellence with two prestigious trophies at the annual Aquatics Recreation Victoria Awards 2024.
The ARV Industry Awards, held on 21 June 2024, recognise and reward outstanding achievement and commitment to the industry.
Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre Swim’s Shannon Gardner was awarded the Swim Teacher of the Year Award – a well-deserved accolade following her Highly Commended recognition last year. Shannon’s teaching methods and unwavering commitment to her students have set a new standard in swim education and water safety awareness.
“Winning the Swim Teacher of the Year Award is a dream come true. It’s a surreal feeling and achievement; one that I would not have reached without the support of my colleagues, and my past and present students and their families. I love being a swim teacher and helping develop such important life skills that go beyond what is taught in the pool,” Shannon said.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and passion we all put into our PARC swimming program and living our vision that Every Child in Frankston Can Swim.”
Peninsula Leisure also took home the Community Impact Initiative of the Year Award for the Activating Vulnerable Communities Project. This initiative highlights Peninsula Leisure’s dedication to overcoming barriers to physical activity within the Frankston community. Through partnership with local organisations, Peninsula Leisure successfully delivered:
- Young Mums Program with Frankston North Children’s Services Playgroup.
- Support for Parents of Multiple Children in collaboration with Frankston Peninsula Multiple Birth Association (FPBMA), addressing challenges such as childcare access and financial constraints.
- Pines Pool Quiet Hour for community members on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) spectrum, to provide a calm and sensory friendly environment.
The Activating Vulnerable Communities Project has been instrumental in creating opportunities for community engagement and physical activity, tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse groups.
Pines Quiet Hour coordinator Sara Mazzaglia said: “We are honoured to receive the Community Impact Initiative of the Year Award. Our team’s efforts to create inclusive environments have truly paid off and we look forward to expanding these programs further.”
Peninsula Leisure CEO Kath Thom said: “These awards reflect our commitment to making a positive impact in our community. We are incredibly proud of Shannon and our entire team for their dedication and innovative approaches. This recognition inspires us to continue our mission of providing accessible and inclusive programs for all people in Frankston to be active, and safer around water.”
Peninsula Leisure’s success at the ARV Awards is a testament to its ongoing commitment to excellence and community service. The company extends heartfelt congratulations to all team members and partners who have contributed to this remarkable achievement.
