South Hedland Aquatic Centre praised by Olympic gold medallist

Former Olympic swimmer and gold medallist Libby Trickett was impressed with the South Hedland Aquatic Centre during her visit to Port Hedland as part of the BHP Billiton Aquatic Super Series.

After swimming a few laps in the Olympic standard 50 metre pool, Trickkett rated the facility as one of the best regional aquatic centres she has seen.

Trickett was joined at the recently upgraded facility by water polo coach Georgina Kovac for a series of clinics for juniors and adults.

Town of Port Hedland Chief Executive Mal Osborne said it was encouraging for aspiring athletes to have the chance to learn from the best, and that he understood many young swimmers and water polo players were inspired by the stories Trickett and Kovac shared on the day.

Osborne explained "the South Hedland Aquatic Centre was redeveloped to provide our residents with a state-of-the-art facility for training and development.

"To hear a former Olympian rate our regional aquatic centre as one of the best in the country is an accolade all of Port Hedland should be proud of.

"The Town is pleased to be able to deliver a quality facility to the community, and we hope that in the future, we can host more training clinics with professional athletes which could possibly lead to a state-wide regional event."

Since reopening in June this year, visitor numbers at the aquatic centre have been consistently high, with up to 4,000 children passing through the gates recently.

Osborne added "with the entry fee for children under 16 years of age now only $1, we have seen an increase in the number of young people and families enjoying the facility, which is always great to see.

"The BHP Billtion Latitube Wave Rider has also been a hit with everyone, with families and companies hiring it for birthdays, events or a fun individual session."

The South Hedland and Gratwick Aquatic Centres operating hours will change to 'summer' hours from Saturday 28th September.

For more information go to www.porthedlandleisure.com.au

Image shows the BHP Billtion Latitube Wave Rider.

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