Sleeman Sports Complex spotlight Aquatic team members’ receipt of the Australian Resuscitation Club Medal

Sleeman Sports Complex is proud to share that members of their Aquatic team have received the Australian Resuscitation Club Medal from Royal Lifesaving Australia in recognition of  lifesaving efforts on Sunday 11th August, 2019 at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre.

The day commenced like every other Sunday at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre. Lights were turned on, doors were opened, water chemistry was checked and the Aquatics team began their rotations across the four pools in the facility.

However, this day would eventually turn out to be life changing for all involved as a long time regular swimmer of the venue was mid-set when he experienced a medical incident and did not resurface.

Mirella Taylor, General Manager, Sleeman Sports Complex and QSAC advises "the watchful eyes, elite lifesaving skills and quick actions of the Aquatics team were on full display to pull the swimmer from the water and commence resuscitation, including the use of oxy and a defib."

The actions of the Aquatics team would ultimately save his life.

Fast forward to 2022 and on the back of communications from the family of the swimmer, Royal Lifesaving Australia has awarded Joe Hayden (Aquatics Coordinator) and Jordan Hale (Duty Staff) the Australian Resuscitiation Club Medal which has been struck as a symbol of appreciation to acknowledge those members of the community who have attempted to save the life of a fellow human being by the application of CPR. This medal is given in appreciation of the efforts to save lives using CPR skills, thereby fulfilling the Royal Life Saving motto 'Whomever you see in distress recognise in him a fellow man'."

Richard Talbot (Aquatic Supervisor) and Cassie Hale (Duty Staff) were also acknowledged for their contribution on the day for their assistance in coordinating the overall medical response.

Taylor adds “we are all incredibly proud of the Aquatics team at Sleeman and this is very worthy recognition for the training, skills and dedication they apply to their craft.”

Medals were presented by Paul Barry, Executive Director Royal Life Saving Society Queensland