Celebrating excellence in aquatic education and safety

Wanneroo Aquamotion, operated by the City of Wanneroo, has achieved a remarkable feat at the 2025 WA Aquatic Recreation Industry Awards, taking home two major honours—Swim School of the Year (sponsored by Perfectgym Solutions) and the Aquatic Facility Safety Award.

The dual win recognises the facility’s ability to deliver high-quality, inclusive aquatic programs while maintaining exceptional safety standards for its patrons and staff.

A Swim School for Everyone

Wanneroo Aquamotion’s swim school has built a reputation as a place where everyone—regardless of age or ability—can learn to swim in a safe, supportive environment. Programs range from Splash and Swim for babies as young as three months to school-age lessons, adult classes, and the much-loved Dolphin Program for swimmers with additional needs.

In recent years, enrolment numbers have soared, with record growth even during cooler months when participation usually dips. This popularity reflects not only the breadth of programs offered but also the quality of teaching and the welcoming environment that families experience when they walk through the doors.

The Dolphin Program holds a special place in the community. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, the milestone was marked with a joyful Dolphin Olympics event, complete with medals, cake, and the support of local leaders. For many participants—some of whom have been involved for decades—the program is more than just swimming; it’s a place of friendship, achievement, and belonging.

Innovation has also played a major role in the swim school’s success. The “Earn While You Learn” traineeship program has created a new pathway for aspiring instructors, offering paid, on-the-job training to address the industry-wide shortage of qualified teachers. The introduction of Lynxight AI-Assisted Supervision has brought cutting-edge technology to the pool deck, enhancing safety through real-time alerts to potential drowning incidents. Even creative touches like the Come Swim With Me storybook—written and illustrated by staff—help keep young swimmers engaged and excited about their lessons.

Raising the Bar for Safety

The second award, the Aquatic Facility Safety Award, reflects Wanneroo Aquamotion’s deep commitment to creating the safest possible environment for all visitors. Safety isn’t just a policy—it’s a culture embedded in every aspect of the facility’s operations.

From the moment visitors enter, clear and accessible safety information is on display, and programs such as Watch Around Water are promoted and enforced to ensure children are always actively supervised. Staff undertake regular and targeted safety training, including CPR refreshers, Swimming Instructor Rescue Awards, and scenario-based drills. The integration of the Lynxight AI system adds another layer of vigilance, supporting lifeguards in identifying and responding to incidents even faster.

Routine safety audits and risk assessments go beyond industry requirements, with findings used to make continuous improvements. Whether it’s during everyday operations or large-scale community events, safety remains the foundation of Wanneroo Aquamotion’s approach.

An Industry and Community Leader

Part of what makes these achievements so significant is that Wanneroo Aquamotion’s impact extends well beyond its own pool deck. The team plays an active role in shaping the aquatic industry in Western Australia—hosting the Junior Lifeguard State Titles, contributing to the Royal Life Saving Society WA Endorsed Swim School Committee, and welcoming peers from other facilities to share knowledge and learn from their systems.

Closer to home, the centre’s commitment to community wellbeing shines through in initiatives like the Laps for Life fundraiser, which raised more than $1,400 for youth mental health, and the annual Dolphin Christmas Party, designed specifically for children with additional needs who may not otherwise have access to inclusive celebrations.

A Well-Deserved Honour

Winning two awards in one year is an extraordinary achievement, and for Wanneroo Aquamotion, it is a reflection of years of hard work, innovation, and community connection. By combining best practice safety systems with inclusive, high-quality programs, the facility has set a benchmark for what aquatic and recreation centres can aspire to achieve.

LIWA Aquatics congratulates the entire Wanneroo Aquamotion team on this well-earned recognition and thanks them for their ongoing contribution to making Western Australia’s aquatic industry safer, stronger, and more inclusive.

📖 Read more about the 2025 WA Aquatic Recreation Industry Awards and all winners here.