At Belgravia Foundation, we celebrate stories of inclusion, community, and inspiration, and one such heart-warming account has put Lawnton Aquatic Centre in Queensland under the spotlight.

Meet Melinda, a dedicated member at Lawnton and a parent of a child with a disability who has found solace and opportunity through private swimming lessons with their instructor, Michelle Newell, at the centre.

As a parent of a child with a disability, Melinda cherishes the discovery of a place like Lawnton, which wholeheartedly embraces and ensures equal access to opportunities and resources for everyone, regardless of age or ability. For her, Lawnton stands out as one of the most inclusive and welcoming places she has ever encountered, with a community that embraces diversity with open arms.

Melinda's heartfelt testimonial about Lawnton's commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space has resonated with us deeply at Belgravia Foundation. She expresses her admiration, saying, "It should serve as an example to schools and society on how to include and support all members of our community." This sentiment reinforces our belief in the power of inclusion and its profound impact on individuals and communities.

Since joining the GOswim program at Lawnton in September 2022, Melinda's child has thrived, gaining strength, stamina, and newfound confidence in and around the water. She attributes this transformation to the exceptional guidance of Michelle, a dedicated instructor who employs innovative and fun teaching methods while respecting each student's boundaries.

Melinda's positive experience extends beyond the swimming lessons. She has noticed a significant reduction in her own anxiety when visiting Lawnton, a result of the warm and friendly atmosphere created by the staff and patrons. Lawnton's commitment to inclusivity has undoubtedly made it a place where everyone feels welcome and embraced.

Michael Fox, Venue Manager of Lawnton Aquatic Centre, beams with pride when acknowledging the team's passion and dedication to supporting the community. He emphasizes, "We try to include every student in mainstream lessons, but we also cater for those that need one-on-one support and are currently running 48 Individual Program classes." This proactive approach to inclusivity exemplifies the values we hold dear at Belgravia Foundation.

Inclusivity is and will remain a top priority for Lawnton Aquatic Centre, a space that fosters a culture of acceptance and support for all. We commend Lawnton for its efforts to create an environment where every individual can flourish, irrespective of their age, ability, or background.

Melinda's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of inclusion. It inspires us all to strive for a world where everyone feels valued and included, where barriers are broken, and opportunities are available to all. At Belgravia Foundation, we stand united in our commitment to supporting the community and ensuring that all can benefit from our services, programs, opportunities, and facilities. Lawnton Aquatic Centre's dedication to inclusivity is a beacon of hope, inspiring us to create a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.