Violet Town Pool Finalist in State 2008 Sport and Recreation Awards

Robyn Machin, Rob. Harrison and Minister James Merlino presenting the certificate and cheque to Violet Town Friends of the Pool Finalist in the "Go For your Life" Community Participation Award. Click image

Presentation to Finalist - Violet Town Friends of the Pool - was made at the 12th Annual "Go for your Life" awards night at the MCG on Monday night. Minister for Sport and Recreation, James Merlino presented the award and cheque to Violet Town Friends of the Pool (VTFOP), accepted by Robin Harrison.

"The Awards are a culmination of a statewide search to find outstanding individuals, groups and organisations that are making an invaluable contribution to the sport and recreation industry in Victoria" Mr Merlino said. "This year's winners were not only chosen because of their remarkable achievements, but also for their contribution to their local community as a whole"

Friends of the Pool organise events, games, VICSWIM, adult swimming lessons and squad training and receive enormous support from the community for their efforts. Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Pool construction was held in December 2007. A history was written and published then launched at a celebratory dinner by Mayor Greg Carlson. Weekend events followed at the pool.

In 2008 Lifesaving Victoria trained 14 new Pool Lifeguards who live within the Strathbogie Shire. They can now help and work at their local pools. Bronze Medallion and First Aid were also part of this training.

VTFOP has dedicated much time and effort to making the local pool the place to be between December and March. The group is passionate about giving the local community a place to enjoy being active and having fun together. Robin Harrison said "recognition at this grassroots level for what we do at Violet Town is great and we are looking forward to another fun summer at our pool".