Swimming Instructor, Andrea named award finalist

Congratulations to City of Burnside Swimming Instructor Andrea Bradley, who last month, was named a finalist in the Community-Based Employee of the Year category at the 2024 Maxima Awards.

Andrea is a dedicated nine-season veteran at the George Bolton Swimming Centre and teaches all age ranges, from kids to adults.

When asked what has kept her coming back to George Bolton Swimming Centre for so many years, Andrea said the incredible staff at the Centre as well as the families she has met over her time.

‘I would not have lasted as long in this job without supportive people. Amanda and Ben, Scott and Sean – you can come here anytime, and you’re always greeted with a smile and support. They value you being here,’ Andrea said.

‘It’s also such a beautiful place. Hazelwood Park is a jewel in the City of Burnside, and the pool is the glimmering gemstone. You come here and you fall in love with the place.’

‘I have met families who started lessons at one-year-old and I’ve seen them grow and move into the Olympic pool and onto their final few levels, its multigenerational.’

A lifelong swimmer and water lover, Andrea knows the importance of her work and teaching the new generations the necessity of learning to swim, while still making her classes fun.

‘We want the kids to become aware of water and teach them respect for it as well as giving them life skills. Panic is what causes the most drownings. Giving them strategies so they don’t panic if they find themselves in a situation and they can think their way through it is vital. Even if you just know how to float – get yourself onto your back and relax – you can get yourself out of trouble.’

‘I get to know the students and see where they are at and how confident they are. I have a rough idea of what I want to teach the kids, but you have to be flexible and adapt to where they are on the day.’

Congratulations again to Andrea on her well-deserved recognition. Her dedication to teaching water safety and swimming skills, coupled with her genuine passion for the George Bolton Swimming Centre and its community, makes her an invaluable asset to the City of Burnside. We’re proud to celebrate her achievements and grateful for her continued contribution to the community. Well done, Andrea!

If you are interested in joining the George Bolton Swimming Centre team as an instructor or lifeguard reach out to our team at pool@burnside.sa.gov.au.

Andrea poolside at George Bolton Swimming Centre

Award finalists at the 2024 Maxima Awards

Ben Grant (Team Leader Swimming Centre), Andrea, Amanda Pimlott (Aquatic Programs Officer)