Episode #4
From SPARK to Summer: What Aquatics Needs to Get Right
Aquatics Only is back. Luke Daly and David Stennett return to the microphones after SPARK 2026 for a conversation that starts on the Gold Coast and quickly gets into something bigger. What happens when people put their hand up, say yes and create opportunities for themselves? What did a 16-year-old volunteering at SPARK remind two industry veterans about connection, curiosity and getting involved? And what should aquatic leaders be thinking about as the industry moves out of development season and into the pressure of summer? Luke and David reflect on some of the people and conversations that stood out at SPARK, including Kristina Karlsson and Tiernan Murphy, before looking ahead to five topics Aquatics Only will be digging into: • Building a roster that survives the sick call • Preparing staff when patrons become abusive • Preparing for the hottest, busiest days of summer • Keeping more water available for our communities • Getting people swimming, and keeping them swimming There is also a first look at an interesting challenge emerging in Learn to Swim: enrolments may look healthy, but are we bringing enough new swimmers into the system? These aren't five problems we're pretending to solve in 20 minutes. They're five conversations we're keen to have. Aquatics Only is back. Let's go. Thanks for listening to Aquatics Only. If you’re in swim schools, aquatic facilities, lifeguarding, learn-to-swim, programs, products, or anything water safety related, you’re in the right place. Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode, and if this one was useful, share it with someone in the industry. Want to get involved or have a guest/topic suggestion? Reach out: aquaticsonlypod@gmail.com
