Join us in Bendigo for the 2024 Regional Conference
The Victorian Aquatics and Recreation industry has collectively survived some of its most trying times over the last 4 years. The acute impact on Regional Victoria has been exceptionally challenging - fires, floods, pandemic and extraordinary economic circumstances.
This year’s theme is looking towards the future, and how we, as an industry, can collaboratively work for the best outcomes for aquatics, recreation and leisure in Regional Victoria.
The two-day conference will cover topics and issues impacting the Victorian Aquatic and Recreation Industry and will also include a trade exhibitor space, networking dinner and site tours.
The aim of the conference is to bring our Industry together to discuss issues, contribute to solutions, cheer for the wins and network with peers from across the State.
Download the Conference Brochure
Event Sponsors
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ARV Platinum Sponsor |
Regional Conference Event Sponsor |
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Keynote Speakers
Rana Hussain
Day 1 Tuesday 28th May, 9:30 AM
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Rana Hussain, the founder of her organisation, Good. Human is a pioneering force in sports administration, media and beyond. A fervent advocate for social inclusion, she stands as a distinguished Inclusion and Belonging leader, driving change with passion and purpose. Rana leverages her expertise to advise on leadership, culture, inclusion and belonging. Her impactful contributions extend beyond organisational realms, encompassing Board roles with the Victorian Women’s Trust and Reconciliation Australia. As a consultant and administrator, Rana has worked with major brands the likes of Coles, the Prince’s Trust, Cricket Australia, the Australian Sports Commission and the AFL to name a few. A regular presenter on the ABC, Rana's multifaceted talents in writing, presenting, and broadcasting make her a dynamic and influential figure, bringing humour, kindness, and thoughtfulness to every endeavour. |
Tom Boyd
Day 2 Wednesday 29th May, 9:30 AM
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Tom Boyd, drafted first in the AFL National Draft, initially fulfilled a childhood dream with the GWS Giants in 2013. Yet, Sydney's competitive environment challenged him, leading to homesickness and a move to the Western Bulldogs, where he won the 2016 AFL Premiership. Despite success, he grappled with inner turmoil, taking a leave of absence in 2017 and ultimately retiring in 2019. Boyd's decision, though courageous, stemmed from a desire to define himself beyond AFL. His journey reflects the complexity of athletic success and personal fulfillment. |
Conference Program
12:00 PM Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre
9 Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat
1:00 PM Faith Leech Aquatic Centre
161-167 Barnard Street, Bendigo
Please note: Faith Leech are welcoming us during their off-season - Search engines may say "temporarily closed".
2:00 PM Golden Square Pool
14A Maple Street, Golden Square
Please note: Golden Square Pool are welcoming us during their off-season - Search engines may say "temporarily closed".
Learn more about Golden Square Pool here
3:00 PM Long Gully Splash Park
14-38 Creeth St, Long Gully
Long Gully Splash Park's Website
Site tour transport: Individual transport is required.
| Time | Presentation | Presenter |
| 8:00 am | Registrations Open | |
| 9:00 am | Opening Address | Kathy Parton, CEO, Aquatics and Recreation Victoria |
| 9:30 am | Enhancing Diversity Equity and Inclusion Outcomes in Regional Victoria | Rana Hussain, Good Human Org |
| 10:30 am | MORNING TEA | |
| 11:00 am | Panel: Local Government CEOs |
Rachael Frampton, Director Community & Planning, Strathbogie Shire Council Stacey Williams, Director Healthy Communities and Environments, City of Greater Bendigo Lucy Roffey, CEO, Central Goldfields Shire Council |
| 12:30 pm | Trade Speed Dating | ARV Partners |
| 1:00 pm | LUNCH | |
| 2:00 pm | Local Community Partnerships (Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Project) | Sandee Facy, Hidden Disabilities |
| 2:30 pm | Artificial Intelligence Anti Drowning Technology | Dan Kwaczynski, Maytronic Commercial |
| 3:00 pm | Attracting and Managing Splash Parks in Regional Victoria |
Phil Murton, Yarra Ranges City Council Brett Diprose, Warren and Mahoney Steve Meikle, Commercial Aquatics |
| 3:30 pm | AFTERNOON TEA | |
| 4:00 pm |
Panel: Case Studies: Processes to Defuse Occupational Violence |
Luke De Vincentis - Darebin City Council James Weston, Hume City Council Jake Goddard, Belgravia Leisure |
| 5:00 pm | Close | |
| 7:00 pm | Networking Drinks and Dinner | |
| Time | Presentation | Presenter |
| 9:00 am | Opening Address | Kathy Parton, CEO, Aquatics and Recreation Victoria |
| 9:30 am | Kicking Goals for Positive Mental Wellbeing | Tom Boyd, Mental Health Advocate |
| 10:30 am | MORNING TEA | |
| 11:00 am | Leading, Growing and Sustaining Talent, Meaningful Ways of Support |
Omar de Silva, ForthRev |
| 12:00pm | Career Progression and Training in Regional Victoria | |
| 12:30 pm | LUNCH | |
| 1:30 pm |
Dynamic Ways to Utalise Hyrdo Pools with Impact |
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| 2:00 pm |
Panel: Industry Problem Solving and Sharing Success |
Ray Smith, City of Greater Bendigo Marcus Maher, Shire of Campaspe Sam Winter, Northern Grampians Shire |
| 2:30 pm |
Panel: Driving Sustainability in our Facilities |
Annabel Sides, Green Sports Adam Luscombe, The Y |
| 3:00 pm |
Panel: Outdoor Swimming Pools: Seasonal Industry Changes |
Sam Kane, Golden Square Pool Allan Glenwright, City of Ballarat Amy Campbell, Murrindindi Shire Council |
| 3:30 pm | AFTERNOON TEA & CLOSE | |
