OVER the past 50 years, generations of swimmers have cooled off from the summer heat, learnt to swim and competed in carnivals at the Merrylands Swim Centre. On Saturday, November 10, the Centre will join the Merrylands Amateur Swim Club (MASC) to celebrate their respective 50th anniversaries with a breakfast and pool party from 7am.
A member of the club for more than 35 years, Merrylands ASC president Graham Edwards invited everyone to help them mark the very special occasion. "Any swimmer, young or old who can swim at least 15 metres, can join in the races and registrations can be made online," he said.
Mr Edwards believes that local swim centres, such as Merrylands, play a key role within the local community, bringing together children, families and adults. "As a swim club we all enjoy and celebrate the successes of our members at all levels," he said. "New members are always welcome and we have swim programs for toddlers, children and adults."
Cumberland Mayor Greg Cummings said 50 years was "a huge milestone for the swim centre, the swim club and the entire community". "Since its opening in 1968, thousands of Cumberland residents have come through the doors of Merrylands Swim Centre to enjoy the facilities," he said.
"All Cumberland residents are invited to join with current and former swim club members for the special anniversary event which will include club races, novelty events and pool inflatables, as well as breakfast. The event is free but regular pool entry costs apply." RSVP for the breakfast via merrylandsasc.asn.au.
Getting ready to celebrate both the 50th anniversary for both the Merrylands pool and the Merrylands Amateur Swim Club, coach Reece Tomkinson, head club coach Peter Johnston and Cumberland Mayor Greg Cummings with coach Alison Johnston and swimmers Helen Macpherson, Summer Shrestha, and Charlie-Rose El Riachi.