New era for Queensland aquatics with ARQ launch

Aquatics and Recreation Queensland (ARQ), a new peak body for the aquatic and recreation industry in Queensland, has been launched.

Launched yesterday evening at an industry event at the Lina Rooftop on Brisbane’s Southbank attended by more than 100 stakeholders, ARQ replaces the former ALFAQ (Australian Leisure Facilities Association Queensland), in providing new representation for Queensland’s aquatics and recreation industry, echoing the functions of fraternal state bodies including Aquatics and Recreation Victoria and LIWA Aquatics.

The event saw ARQ reveal its intended plan of action and reveal its membership packages for operators, individuals and industry suppliers.

Among the latter category, swimming equipment supplier Vorgee was revealed as ARQ’s foundation Silver Partner, facility maintenance experts Halogen Pools was announced as ARQ's foundation Gold Partner and SPASA's Splash magazine was unveiled as the body’s foundation Platinum Partner.

Speaking at the event, Jay Clarke Managing Director at City Venue Management and ARQ inaugural President advised of ARQ’s “brand new mission” backed by a board that has been focussed on “rebranding and creating a new purpose and strategy plan”, introducing its four word purpose “endorse and support, collaborate and advocate”

Explaining this, Clarke advised “ARQ seeks to endorse the policies and procedures of our industry's governing bodies and support our members in understanding and implementing them.

“ARQ encourages collaboration among its members by connecting them through events and advocating for initiatives that raise the standards and performance of our industry.

“These four focus areas will help us stay true to our mission in becoming Queensland's peak industry body for the aquatics and recreation industry.”

“Tonight, ARQ is encouraging the industry of Queensland to come together and support the body that exists to support them.

“We see the biggest opportunity for ARQ is in helping you … with issues like the rising costs of electricity and workforce shortages.

“But, as an association, we need your help. If you have interest in either of these two topics, please contact us through our website or show support by joining either of these communities, these committees.”

Clarke went on to advise that aquatic and recreation industry professionals in Queensland will be receiving a survey from a ARQ seeking input on challenges and inviting contributions.

The launch event was sponsored by Splash magazine.

Click here for more information on the new ARQ website.

Article amended 9th August to acknowledge Splash magazine as ARQ's inaugural Platinum sponsor.