SGAC Athletes bring home the gold from the Sunny Gold Coast!

May was a busy and memorable month for all the members of the SGAC family from our very youngest to the most experienced - SGAC had 81 of our athletes participating for NSW in the various disciplines at the Australian National Championships competition which were held at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre from Thursday May 12th 2022 until Tuesday May 17th. 18 of the SGAC squad members competing at the championships are also West HQ employees.

All of the team at West HQ and SGAC were both delighted and proud to see years of commitment and hard work by SGAC trampoline coach Belinda Cox, and athlete Dominic Clarke, rewarded with their induction to the Gymnastics Australia Hall of Fame in recognition of their Outstanding Contribution to the Sport. Belinda herself started coaching at the age of just 14 (and has mentored so many young athletes it has to be counted in thousands) to reach their full potential, notably working with Dom Clarke when he qualified for, and participated in, the Tokyo Olympic Games representing Australia – and delivering an outstanding performance in one of the world’s most pressured sports environments.

Over the course of the event our teams picked up almost 70 medals which is a huge credit to all the athletes, their parents who support them so much, and of course the coaches who work with them every week.


The SGAC Acrobatics Team won:

Well done to everyone who took part and please keep up the hard work.

Pictured are Emily and Xyza who picked up  an impressive four medals each.

Breanna Scott of SGAC/NSW High Performance made history at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham UK as she became the first NSW athlete in 20 years to deliver a podium finish in the Women's Artistic Gymnastics team competition.

The 20-year-old gymnast was making her first appearance at a Commonwealth Games alongside team mates Georgia Godwin, Emily Whitehead, Romi Brown and Kate McDonald and delivered strong routines to help the team win the Team silver medal, and finished in the top 10 for both her beam and floor routines with scores of 12.450 and 12.600 respectively.

When interviewed after her performance Breanna said that standing on the podium with a medal around her neck is a memory she will cherish. She went on to say “It has been amazing to be competing against such great athletes. The village has been one of the best experiences, especially meeting different athletes from different sports and countries. I want to build from this event in preparation for hopefully being selected for World Championships later this year and believe I will be able to show some upgrades,” she said.

We look forward to seeing Breanna back in training at SGAC, and all the team at West HQ send our congratulations on her amazing performances.

The NSW Aquatics and Recreation Institute (ARI) has awarded SGAC it’s coveted 2022 Swim School of the Year title at their awards ceremony on October 20th 2022.

This award recognises a team and facility that shows absolute commitment and dedication to the safe and professional teaching of swimming and water safety. Customers have praised the SGAC team for their positive and encouraging attitude and their focus on learn to swim, stroke correction and a wider range of adult programs to keep the whole community participating.

The Swim School Award is sponsored by AUSTSWIM.

Summer is just around the corner, and it's time for families to gather and make unforgettable memories by the water. Whether you're heading to the beach, lake, or a river, it's essential to prioritise safety and be well-prepared. This week, as part of our "Swim Safer into Summer 2023" series, we want to highlight the significance of knowing and understanding water conditions for a safer and more enjoyable aquatic experience for the entire family.

The Unpredictable Nature of Water

Water, in all its forms, has an unpredictable nature. It can be calm one moment and become turbulent the next. It's this unpredictability that underscores the importance of being well-informed before taking your family's plunge into the great outdoors.

Research and Preparation: Your Family's Lifeline

Knowledge is your family's lifeline when it comes to water safety. Here are some essential tips and insights to help you and your loved ones swim safer into Summer 2023:

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Before you head to your chosen water destination, it's crucial to check the weather forecast. Unpredictable weather can disrupt your family's aquatic plans. High winds, thunderstorms, or strong currents can pose serious risks, so ensure the weather conditions are favorable for a family outing.

2. Understand the Water Conditions

Water conditions can change rapidly, affecting your family's safety and comfort in the water. Whether it's tides, currents, or water temperature, it's essential to know what to expect. You can find this information on websites like beachsafe.org.au, which provides real-time data on water conditions and safety tips for family-friendly beaches.

3. Swim at Family-Friendly Locations

Opt for family-friendly locations where lifeguards are present. Lifeguards are trained to monitor and respond to changing conditions, providing peace of mind for you and your family. Pay attention to flags and signs indicating safe swimming areas and potential hazards.

4. Buddy System

Always encourage the buddy system for your family. Swimming with a buddy, whether it's a sibling, parent, or friend, can make a world of difference in terms of safety. Keep an eye on each other and be ready to assist if needed.

5. Be Prepared

Carry essential safety equipment, such as flotation devices, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit, to ensure your family's safety and comfort throughout the day.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

In conclusion, as you prepare for your family's aquatic adventures in Summer 2023, remember that knowledge is your family's lifeline. Understanding the unpredictable nature of water and taking proactive steps to stay safe is vital. By checking the weather, researching water conditions, and following safety guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your entire family.

Use the provided link to check the conditions of our local family-friendly beaches at beachsafe.org.au. Stay informed, stay safe, and make this summer a memorable and secure one for your family.

As we gear up for another hot Australian summer, it's time to immerse ourselves into a topic as critical as sunscreen application and knowing the conditions: Beach Flags. They're not just colorful pieces of fabric, these flags convey vital information about beach conditions. This week, in our ongoing "Swim Safer into Summer 2023" series, let's unravel the significance of beach flags to ensure a secure and enjoyable time by the water with your loved ones.

Understanding the Language of Beach Flags

Consider beach flags as a silent communicator of the ocean's temperament. Each color and pattern provides valuable insights, guiding us on whether the waves are serene or if caution is in order.

1. Red Flag

Meaning: No Swimming

What it's Conveying: The sea is exhibiting challenging conditions. Swimming is not advisable. Keep a vigilant eye on your surroundings, and perhaps engage in alternative beach activities.

2. Yellow Flag

Meaning: Caution required. Potential hazards.

What it's Conveying: The waves are moderate, but a level of caution is warranted. Stay close to the shore, and be vigilant with the conditions.

3. Red & Yellow Flags

Meaning: Swim between the flags

What it's Conveying: The sea is calm, and it's a signal for safe swimming between these flags. Enjoy the water responsibly.

4. Black and White Checkered Flag

Meaning: Surfcraft riding area boundary

What it's Conveying: This area is reserved for surfboards and watercraft. Time to ride the waves and respect the designated zones.

5. Red & White Flag

Meaning: Evacuate the water

What it's Conveying: Immediately evacuate the water. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Unveiling Other Essential Signs

Check out this link for an in-depth understanding of beach signs and their implications.

Dive into Safety

Let's navigate the waters intelligently and embrace a summer of sun, smiles and safety. Understanding the language of beach flags is important in planning your beach days.

As we get closer to summer and prepare for the waters, let's focus on barriers around water. This week, in continuation of our "Swim Safer into Summer 2023" series, let's explore the significance of maintaining effective barriers, especially around backyard pools, to ensure water safety for your family and loved ones.

The Crucial Role of Barriers

Barriers act as protective shields, creating a line of defense between loved ones and potential water-related dangers. Especially around backyard pools, they serve as an essential safety measure.

Importance of Regular Checks

Regular checks and maintenance of these barriers are crucial. Here's why:

1. Preventing Unsupervised Access

Robust barriers, like fences and gates, prevent unauthorised and unsupervised access to the pool area, reducing the risk of accidents.

2. Safety for Children

Properly maintained barriers act as an added layer of protection for children. They provide a buffer, ensuring that curious little explorers don't wander into the pool area without supervision.

3. Compliance with Safety Standards

Ensuring your barriers comply with safety standards is paramount. Regular checks help identify any deficiencies that need immediate attention, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

Take Charge of Safety

Before you embark on your aquatic adventures this summer, take charge of safety by regularly inspecting and maintaining barriers around water sources. Use the provided link to enrich your understanding of the pivotal role that barriers play in ensuring a safe and enjoyable aquatic environment at home.

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