Last Friday, 5^th February, we held our annual SRAS Swimming Carnival. The day began with a brilliant induction of our school leaders in the gymnasium from Taylor Poole. As a previous SRC member, house captain and school captain, Taylor highlighted the importance of these roles for our school, as well as the many life-long skills she has gained from such responsibilities. Further, as a current record holder of many events at our swimming carnival, Taylor was able to set the tone for a great day of fun, participation and competition for all involved. 

 There were some amazing individual and team efforts witnessed throughout our carnival. Once again, it was brilliant to see a number of students put their hand up to attempt the 100m freestyle as the opening event of the program. In particular, we saw a junior student, Jade Durant, attempt the swim for the first time! In a new initiative for students to gain participation points for their team, we saw a number of Eagles and Kangaroos swim laps in our 15-minute break at 11am. We even saw a parent and a previous student jump in to gain much needed extra points. I hope to see more parents/carers brave the pool next year to gain points for their team. Another fun initiative this year was our new event, called the clothing relay. This event provided great entertainment for spectators, as students worked through the challenges of swimming with some ‘unique’ clothing outfits. I look forward to a second edition of this at next year’s carnival…

 Scores between the Murray Eagles and Mallee Kangaroos were highly competitive throughout the carnival. The Kangaroos took the early lead, before scores levelled up, and a late surge got the Murray Eagles over the line. Congratulations and thank you to all students who willingly participated. Also, good luck to those students who have been selected to compete in the Upper South East and SAPSASA carnivals.

 Many thanks must go to everyone involved in the organization and running of our swimming carnival. A special thank you to all of the staff for your support – everyone had a key role to play in the running of the event. Also, thank you to Ben O’Shaughnessy for having the pool ready and in great condition again this year.

 Our amazing Parents and Friends team again kept us fed and watered. I won’t mention anything about a slight sausage shortage mishap? I look forward to working with them again for our upcoming Athletics day! Also, a BIG thank you to the Swan Reach General Store for their kind donation of all the bread supplied for the sausage sizzle.

 A big thank you to all of the parents, carers and grandparents for coming out and supporting your child/ren. This adds to make for a great atmosphere and family event.

 Lastly, (and most importantly) CONGRATULATIONS to the staff team on completing a hat-trick of wins in the staff vs parents vs students race to conclude the day. Once again, in a cleanly swam race, the staff were just a little too good…

 Well done to the following students on winning individual trophies, medals and certificates:

Mr Jayden Coleman

Sports Coordinator