Local swimming club, Riverton Aquanauts, has been awarded Metro Club of the Year at the prestigious Swimming WA Awards of Excellence.
The annual event, hosted by Swimming WA, the governing body for swimming in Western Australia, celebrated the achievements of the state’s swimming community, recognising the dedication of swimmers, coaches, officials, and volunteers from various clubs.
This year, the ceremony took place on the picturesque waterfront of the Swan River in East Perth on October 5.
As winners of the Metro Club of the Year award, the Riverton Aquanauts demonstrated exceptional engagement within the community across various criteria, including strategic partnerships, club governance, development, performance in the pool, inclusion, club culture, and financial management.
Founded in 2014 with just one coach and six swimming members, the Aquanauts has since grown to over 100 members, supported by a large team of volunteers and coaches.
President of the Riverton Aquanauts Swimming Club, Kerry Smith, said she is incredibly proud of everyone involved with the club and was honoured to accept the accolade.
“This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of countless individuals who have contributed to our success over the past decade,” Ms Smith said.
“While I can’t thank every person by name, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our swimmers, parents, volunteers, committee members, coaches, and technical officials. Their commitment has made Riverton Aquanauts what it is today.”
Ms Smith said the award means a lot to the club, especially in their 10th year of operation, and it demonstrates there is more to the club than just swimming.
“Swimming clubs foster a strong sense of belonging. Members often form lasting friendships and support networks, creating a tight-knit community that shares a passion for the sport,” she explained.
“Being part of a club helps reduce stress and anxiety while fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-esteem.”
Among more than 80 clubs affiliated with Swimming WA, Riverton Aquanauts was recognised as the top club, excelling in and out of the pool.
Head Coach of the Riverton Aquanauts for the past ten years, Gemma Herrington, expressed that she is beyond proud to see the club’s efforts recognised and that being a coach continues to be deeply gratifying.
“As a coach, it’s very rewarding watching swimmers grow and develop, not just their skills but as individuals. Being part of their journey is what makes being a coach so special,” Ms Herrington said.
“I’ve had so many incredible highlights throughout my coaching career, from seeing our swimmers achieve personal bests to celebrating our club’s biggest successes. It’s these experiences that remind me why I love what I do.”
In addition to the club’s impressive achievements, Riverton Aquanauts Swimming Club captain Daisy Kammermann was recognised as a finalist for the prestigious Ben Neale Memorial Medal, which honours the ‘Best Club Person’ within the Swimming WA network.
Ms Smith said the club is always looking for new members, and swimming is a sport that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy, whether you’re just learning to swim or an experienced athlete.
“We have swimmers aged from 7 to 51, several multi-class athletes, and representation from many different cultural backgrounds,” she said.
“Learning to swim is not just about sport; it’s a critical life skill in our water-focused Aussie lifestyle that enhances safety and confidence in and around water.
For those who enjoy competition, swimming offers numerous opportunities to challenge yourself and achieve personal bests, all while building sportsmanship and resilience.”
