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The Aquatic and Recreation Institute (ARI) NSW has today completed its 57th Annual ARI Conference and Trade Show, welcoming more than 160 to the two-day event at the Fairmont Resort in the Blue Mountains.

Drawing together managers from across the aquatic facilities industry in NSW, delegates at the 2023 conference heard industry-leading presentations on management issues, inclusion, technology, third place design and contract management.

With technology a major theme through conference, BlueFit Chief Executive Todd McHardy addressed the role of data in facility operations, LARCAN Executive Director Michelle Nolland on optimising site performance while Liverpool City Council’s Craig Lambeth, Manager Community Recreation and Mark Taylor, Social Infrastructure Planner, Liverpool City Council presented on how data can lead strategy.

The inclusion theme saw RJ Houston of Royal Life Saving Society - Australia address the social impact of facilities while Jeff Walkley, Chief Executive of the Belgravia Foundation and Chris Kerrisk, co-founder of Cérge, introduced the Cérge companion app and its role in removing social barriers and improving community participation through exceptional guest experiences in aquatic and recreation facilities.

Walkley also teamed with Peter Wilson of Determined2 to present on innovative approaches to welcome, support and include everyone into aquatic and recreation experiences, including the Determined2 immersive immersion program.

In addition, Dion Gosling, Director and founder of 106 Architects, presented on third place design thinking to better connect communities, a panel of the ARI’s Young Leaders was convened before Nolland and McHardy joined a panel session on managing contract facilities that also featured Nick Cox, Chief Executive of Belgravia Leisure and Simon Duck, Senior Manager of Sport and Recreation at Inner West Council.

The first day of the conference closed with MC Stephanie Brantz interviewing Socceroos Head Coach, Graham Arnold during which he revealed his winning mantra: belief, energy and focus and shared his insights on what it takes to lead successful teams.

The Trade Show saw a range of leading suppliers of displaying their products with Para Mobility Australia awarded for having the best stand.

The ARI conference will return in 2024, prior to which it will be staging a series of industry events including its annual industry awards at Waterview in Sydney’s Bicentennial Park on 19th October.

Image: Registration desk for the 57th Annual ARI Conference and Trade Show at the Fairmont Resort in the NSW Blue Mountains.

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