In 2016, Lawnton Aquatic Centre embarked on a transformative journey to build meaningful connections with the refugee community in Moreton Bay, focusing particularly on individuals of Syrian heritage. This pioneering partnership has yielded remarkable outcomes in terms of community engagement, support, and empowerment. Through a commitment to inclusion, community capacity building and workforce diversification, the Lawnton Aquatic Centre has become more than a leisure facility; it's a beacon of positive change.

Under the leadership of former Moreton Bay Area Manager, Craig Tobin, and with the dedication of venue managers like Michael Fox, the aquatic centre took an innovative step toward creating a welcoming space for refugees. The cornerstone of this effort was the recruitment, training and mentoring of two Syrian siblings, Basel and Nada Obaid, as employees of the centre. Their firsthand experiences as refugees brought valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by displaced communities.

The impact of this initiative has been profound. Nada's involvement in the Go Swim program in 2022, for instance, resulted in the enrolment of nine refugee children. These young individuals not only gained essential swimming skills but also found a connection to leisure activities, enhancing their overall health and well-being. The collaboration with Mater North Refugee Health in 2023 further underscored the success of the program, introducing Arabic-speaking women to a 6-week swimming initiative that went beyond aquatics, fostering holistic well-being, connection to their new environment, and life-saving capabilities.

The tangible benefits of the program are evident in the improved health and self-confidence of participants. Equally important is the establishment of positive relationships and the gradual transformation of the aquatic centre into a truly welcoming space for refugees. The Lawnton Aquatic Centre, under Belgravia Leisure's umbrella, is not merely a provider of leisure activities; it's a socially responsible force for community improvement.

Belgravia Leisure's commitment to social responsibility and community betterment is exemplified through initiatives like the Lawnton Aquatic Centre's Refugee Program. It reflects a genuine desire to be a guiding light and a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those they serve. By focusing on inclusion, community capacity building, and workforce representation and diversification, Belgravia Leisure is not just shaping a diverse and inclusive workforce; it's shaping a future where every community member, regardless of their background, can thrive and find a sense of belonging. Belgravia Foundation wish to congratulate all involved.