At Redcliffe War Memorial Pool, managed with pride by Belgravia Leisure on behalf of the Moreton Bay Regional Council in Queensland, the spirit of inclusion is alive and thriving. The pool has taken an inspiring step towards fostering an environment of acceptance and unity by inviting Special Olympics swimmers to participate in their club nights alongside members of the Redcliffe Leagues Swimming Club. This ongoing initiative offers a remarkable opportunity for the Special Olympics swimmers to practice racing and seamlessly integrate into club races throughout the year. 

Special Olympics Australia, an integral part of a global inclusion movement, utilises sports, health, education, and leadership programs to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities, eradicating discrimination and providing them with the tools to lead empowered lives. At Redcliffe, this mission has taken flight through the collaboration between the Special Olympics swimmers and the Redcliffe Leagues Swimming Club. 

Recently, the Redcliffe Leagues Swimming Club hosted its highly anticipated Presentation Night, where the season's accomplishments were celebrated and awards were bestowed upon deserving swimmers. What made this year's event even more special was the inclusion of a few of the Special Olympics swimmers who had joined the club and actively participated in the skill and stroke correction workouts. Their hard work, dedication, and progress were recognised, and they received well-deserved awards for their achievements. 

This heartwarming partnership between the Redcliffe Leagues Swimming Club and the Special Olympics swimmers exemplifies the power of inclusion and the transformative effect it has on everyone involved. Beyond just providing race practice for the Special Olympics swimmers, this collaboration has become a platform for building meaningful connections, breaking down barriers, and embracing diversity within the swimming community. 

Through the integration into club races, the Special Olympics swimmers not only gain valuable race experience but also forge friendships and experience the camaraderie that comes with being part of a close-knit club. The club members, on the other hand, have the privilege of witnessing the determination, spirit, and sportsmanship displayed by the Special Olympics swimmers, leaving a lasting impact on their own perspectives and enriching their understanding of inclusion. 

Belgravia Foundation commends Redcliffe War Memorial Pool for creating an environment that celebrates diversity and empowers every individual, the collaboration with the Special Olympics remains an inspiring beacon of progress and a testament to the potential of partnerships that drive positive social change. Together, they are making waves in the swimming community and proving that, when everyone is given the chance to participate and shine, true excellence knows no bounds.