Learning to swim is a crucial part of growing up in Queensland, but are all swim schools the same? We chat with Jay Clarke from Rackley Swimming to find out more about critical water safety education for our little ones.
Across Australia, shimmering coastlines, inviting pools, and sprawling waterways paint a picture of a nation intrinsically linked to water.
This aquatic playground offers a wealth of recreation opportunities. From weekend barbecues by the pool to family holidays splashing in the waves, swimming unlocks a door to fitness, recreation, and a deep connection with the Australian landscape.
However, with great aquatic enjoyment comes responsibility. Ensuring everyone, particularly children, feels safe and confident in the water is paramount; knowing how to navigate the water confidently becomes an essential life skill. Therefore, water safety education and swim lessons become the cornerstones for unlocking the joy that swimming and living in Queensland offers.
Learning to swim is so important that it begs the question: Are all swim schools equal? Jay Clarke, managing director and long-time business partner to CEO Reece Rackley from Rackley Swimming, believes this is not the case.
“At Rackley Swimming, we are passionate about teaching children the life-saving skill of swimming,” said Jay. “Our vision is to equip children with essential swimming skills that last a lifetime, helping them enjoy the Australian lifestyle to the fullest. We believe it’s never too early or too late to start your swim journey. This belief has become what’s defined our success in the swimming industry, that we offer lessons from infants who are just three months old in our free Baby Splash program and foster them all the way up to elite levels and everywhere in between.”
With a history dating back to 1951, Rackley Swimming has carved a reputation for excellence in swim education, catering to individuals of all ages and abilities. Their core mission is threefold: fostering water safety in children, developing their swimming skills, and nurturing their confidence in the aquatic environment.
“Our team is dedicated to nurturing each child’s swimming abilities, ensuring they develop the skills and confidence needed to be safer in and around water. We hear it from customers often; our teachers and the team around them make the learning to swim experience welcoming and enjoyable. ” Jay says.
Today, the family-owned swim school boasts over 34 locations across Queensland and New South Wales, offering unparalleled access to high-quality swim education. But as Jay explains, Rackley Swimming is more than just a swim school; it’s a community that promotes water safety and confidence.
“When you join Rackley Swimming, you become part of a local community. Children can join as infants and continue swimming with us as they progress through the squad. Kids form lifelong friendships, supporting and challenging each other in the pool. It’s great to watch our pools become a place for social connection and gathering. We get to watch many moments worth celebrating, from first swim lessons to winning Rackley Races and even hosting birthday parties.”
Adults, too, can benefit from Rackley’s expertise, which includes tailored programs designed to build water confidence and refine swimming techniques. Ultimately, Rackley Swimming aspires to cultivate a nation of confident swimmers, contributing to a safer and healthier Australian community.
Beach safety and water confidence
Learning to swim is far more than mastering laps and strokes.
“Swimming skills can help save lives, no matter the aquatic activity,” says Jay. From fishing to playing at the beach, any activity near water carries a risk; swimming skills would be required if a child falls into the water while doing that activity.”
That’s why Rackley’s learn-to-swim program places a strong emphasis on water safety from the very beginning.
“Swimming lessons can start from three months old, with our free baby splash and play sessions,” says Jay. “These group sessions are a great way to introduce your child to being in the water whilst also being safe in a parent’s arms.”
“Our lessons equip kids with the knowledge and skills they need to be confident and safe around water, making them well-prepared for future adventures, from Nippers and wading through to surfing and snorkelling.”
“Giving your children the skills of swimming is a gift that will benefit them for a lifetime,” says Jay. “With our dedicated teams, comprehensive programs, and conveniently located facilities, we ensure that every child has the opportunity to become a confident and capable swimmer. We’ve set out to make swimming a safe and enjoyable part of life for everyone.”
Swimming lessons at Rackley Swimming
Legacy of champions and the next generation
For those that do have aspirations of swimming for gold, Rackley Swimming has consistently produced world-class athletes, including six members of the Australian Dolphins team that went to the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
Ky Hurst, a legend in open water and Ironman competitions, reflects on the unique environment at Rackley Swimming. ”Rackley Swimming had five athletes at the Olympic Games in Paris and one competing in the Paralympics. For the younger swimmers, seeing the dedication and work ethic required to succeed at the highest levels is an incredible opportunity.”
Ky’s son, Koa, also trains with the Rackley Miami squads and aspires to continue his father’s legacy. “I like getting in the pool with my mates and training hard so I can maybe get ready for the 2032 Olympics. My main goal is to one day be an Ironman; I like distance swimming,” Koa shares.
Meet Trev the Turtle
When it comes to capturing the hearts (and imaginations) of young swimmers, Rackley Swimming knows just the shell for the job: Trev the Turtle. More than just a cuddly mascot, Trev embodies the core values that make Rackley tick: fun, patience, and unwavering dedication to water safety. Trev isn’t just there to splash around; he’s a passionate advocate for fostering confidence in young swimmers, celebrating every milestone and achievement. His message extends beyond the pool, promoting the importance of clean waterways so everyone can enjoy a healthy aquatic environment. Trev’s engaging presence is a winning formula, transforming swim lessons from daunting dives into exciting adventures. Keep an eye out for Trev the Turtle at your child’s school or daycare, as he and the Rackley Swimming team provide engaging free water safety education.
Why Rackley Swimming?
In addition to the excellent program and passionate instructors, it’s the little things that make Rackey Swimming such a popular choice for families learning to swim. Here’s why:
- Unlimited make-up lessons: Life can be unpredictable. The self-managed online parent portal means you can quickly reschedule lessons as needed.
- Free lifestyle hold: Take advantage of up to four weeks of free class holds each year.
- Free student swim memberships: Rackley students can swim for free at any of our public pools.
- Sibling savings: Enjoy discounts starting from the third child, making swim lessons more affordable for larger families.
- Free Baby Splash program: Introduce your infant (from 3 months old) to the water with the complimentary baby program.
- Additional inclusions: Enjoy even more benefits when you swim two or more times a week.
- Availability 7 days a week: With heated, year-round pools, you can schedule lessons at your convenience seven days a week.
For more information or to find a location near you, visit rackleyswimming.com.au
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