Sandy Rodgers, Town of Port Hedland

Sandy has contributed to the aquatic industry for almost 40 years, building extensive experience across aquatic education, water safety, fitness, facility operations and workforce development.

Beginning with AustSwim in 1986, Sandy's career has included teaching swimming and water safety programs throughout regional Western Australia, including early work in Kununurra. Around 2000, Sandy established the swim school program for the Town of Port Hedland, developing a structured learn-to-swim pathway that included the introduction of infant and preschool aquatic programs. The swim school has continued to serve the local community for many years.

Over the course of her career, Sandy has spent approximately 15 years with the Town of Port Hedland, 15 years with the YMCA locally and a further seven years with the Town of Port Hedland. During this time, she has taught swimmers of all ages and abilities, including infants, adults, multicultural community members and people with disabilities.

In addition to teaching, Sandy has made a significant contribution to industry training and workforce development. As a Heartbeat resuscitation instructor and AustSwim presenter, she has delivered training to a broad range of organisations including medical centres, childcare providers, community health services and community groups throughout the region.

Sandy's qualifications span aquatic operations, first aid, sports training and workplace assessment. She became a qualified Aquatic Technical Operator in 2003 and has remained actively involved in facility operations as a lifeguard and Duty Manager. Through Sports Medicine Australia, she also gained qualifications as a sports trainer and strapper, supporting athlete wellbeing and injury management.

Her involvement in the broader aquatic industry has included roles as a swim school coordinator, swim club coach, swimming official and referee at country pennant competitions. Sandy has also delivered aerobics and aqua aerobics programs, supporting community participation in health and fitness activities.

A qualified workplace trainer and assessor, Sandy has played an important role in developing aquatic staff and volunteers. She has also co-facilitated Pool Lifeguard courses in Port Hedland alongside Royal Life Saving WA trainer John East, helping prepare and qualify lifeguards for the local industry.

Throughout her career, Sandy has remained committed to professional development and community engagement, contributing to initiatives such as Indigenous Bronze programs, Swim for Life programs and aquatic activities in remote communities including Warralong.

Her long-standing contribution has helped strengthen aquatic education, workforce capability and water safety outcomes across regional Western Australia.