Governor General Visits the Whittlesea Swim Centre to Show Support to the Bushfire survivors

26-02-2009

On Sunday 15th February, in the heart land of the Bushfire relief the Governor General along with the City of Whittlesea Mayor made a visit to the Whittlesea Swim Centre (a Belgravia Leisure managed facility) to show support to the families affected by the devastating Bushfires. A FREE DAY @ WHITTLESEA SWIM CENTRE was held for the survivors, volunteers, emergency services, CFA, friends and family. It was an opportunity to have a play in the pool and take their mind off the devastation of the past 6-7 days. 

The event was a joint initiative with the City of Whittlesea as a result of the survivors needing/wanting some positive activity to take their minds off the trying conditions.

The support from staff within Belgravia Leisure, it’s suppliers, City of Whittlesea and the greater community was overwhelming.  The event was organised in less than 4 days, involved over 35 Belgravia Leisure staff from 5 major facilities within Victoria kindly volunteering their time. In addition, 15 entertainment attractions drawing another 45+ helpers participated in the day and over 5,000 products were donated to give away to the families attending the day.

All families received a swimmers kit including a bag, a pair of Zoggs bathers, goggles, cap, soap, shampoo and more. They then had the opportunity to play on the giant water inflatable, meet Blinky Bill, get their face painted, go for a Harley ride, have some ice cream, or just sit back and soak up the atmosphere of the 25 piece Police big brass band. 

All in all it was great to see the kids play and laugh which often brought a smile to the parent’s faces. The community spirit is alive and well in the Whittlesea township which was due to the overwhelming support that we have all seen from within the town and kindness of all Australians.

In addition, the day was dedicated to the memory of our very own Penny Chambers, a staff member at the Whittlesea Swim Centre who was one of the victims of the devastating fires along with her 20 year old sister at Kinglake. Penny was such a positive personality at Whittlesea Swim Centre and will be sadly missed.

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