Automated recording and reporting of official competition and qualifying times is within the grasp of Forster Aquatic Swimming Club thanks to Greater Bank’s #GreaterMidNorthCoast Community Funding Program.
Winning a hard-fought public vote in the April round has secured $2,000 for Forster Aquatic Swimming Club, with $500 going to both Solitary Islands Underwater Research Group (SURG) and Port Macquarie Parkinson's Support Group as the monthly runners-up.
Forster Aquatic Swimming Club has more than 100 members from across the region who swim for fun, fitness and glory. They hold weekly club nights each Tuesday where the swimmers participate in three or four events from the 25m noodle race to the 800m freestyle.
According to Vice President, Julie Carmichael, they are also a very welcoming club that supports swimmers of all ages and abilities.
“We have around 60% female membership, swimmers with a disability and also First Nations swimmers, all of whom are looking to compete in a fun and welcoming environment.
“Many of our swimmers also participate at local, regional, country, state and national level and we are run by a small but enthusiastic group of volunteers who go above and beyond to make swimming a fun and inclusive sport for all.
Forster Aquatic Swimming Club Vice President, Julie Carmichael
“We invested in a new timing system last year, but we are planning to buy some additional handsets that will allow us to record and report official times to competition standard without having to rely on volunteers transcribing all the results by hand.
“This means our swimmers aiming to qualify for regional, state and national championships can be confident they’ve made the grade, thanks to Greater Bank’s contribution.”
Greater Bank’s Mid North Coast Regional Sales Manager, Jennifer Smith, said swimming is a terrific activity for people of all ages.
“Swimming is a great way to keep fit and healthy, both aerobically and anaerobically, with minimal strain or impact on joints,” Jennifer said.
“Add in the social aspect of the club and the friendly competition and it’s a recipe for good physical and mental wellbeing, which is something we are delighted to support.
“We’re also pleased to be able to facilitate the progress of those swimmers who are aiming for higher honours.”
DeadlyScience (Port Macquarie), Forster Tuncurry Junior Rugby League Football Club and Hallidays Point Pickleball Club Inc the nominees for the May round of the #GreaterMidNorthCoast Community Funding Program, where there’s another $3,000 up for grabs.
Voting is now open online at greater.com.au/greatermidnorthcoast and closes at 9.00am on Monday May 1 until 5.00pm Wednesday May 24, 2023.