Stars dive in to Speers Point Swim Centre event

A trio of Commonwealth Games athletes made a major splash with up-and-coming talent on 11 January as part of the 2020 Swim with the Stars event. Local champion swimmer Meg Bailey, Commonwealth Games silver medallist Bradley Woodward and Commonwealth 200m breaststroke record holder Matthew Wilson provided a day of advice and insight to more than 20 kids at Speers Point Swim Centre.

National swim team coach/ physiotherapist Adam Kable and performance swimming coach/ physiologist Jake Hodgetts were also on hand for this year’s event, designed to bring out the best in swimmers aged 15 and under who are already competing at local swim meets. Lake Macquarie City Council Acting Manager Leisure Services Paul Stone said the day was an outstanding success.

“Having such close access to athletes who have excelled on the world stage is a rare and valuable opportunity,” Mr Stone said.

“The young swimmers came out of the water at the end of the day really benefiting from the wisdom and guidance imparted.”

Participants rounded out the day with an autograph and photo session, making the most of the opportunity to grab some selfies with the stars.

Find out more about local community initiatives in the Autumn issue of Hunter&Coastal Lifestyle Magazine.

Photo courtesy of Lake Macquarie Council