Swimming Club Inc. is a renowned sports club located in Geelong, Victoria. Our mission is to provide a friendly atmosphere that encourages and assists individuals in achieving their desired goals and reaching their full potential within the swimming club environment.
The history of the Lara Swimming Club dates back to the early 1960s when local residents Abe and Jean McClelland generously donated the land on which the Lara Pool was constructed. The pool, named in their honour, was the first chlorinated pool in the Geelong area.
In February 1963, the inaugural pool manager, Mr. Herb Jeffery, called a meeting to gauge community interest in establishing a swimming club. Shortly after, the Lara Amateur Swimming and Lifesaving Club held its first swim meet on the day of the pool's official opening, March 2, 1963. Since then, the club has been conducting weekly swim meets, with presentation days held at the end of each season to award trophies and recognise outstanding achievements.
Throughout its history, the Lara Swimming Club has undergone various developments and improvements. In 1976, the clubroom was officially opened, with funding provided by the Shire of Corio and additional contributions from fundraising activities organised by club members.
With council amalgamations in 1993, the pool's management was transferred to the City of Greater Geelong, and the club changed its name to Lara Swimming Club Inc. to comply with new incorporation legislation. The club's colours, navy-blue and white, have remained consistent, while the current logo represents the third version.
The Lara Swimming Club has celebrated significant milestones throughout the years, including its 25th, 30th, 40th, and 50th anniversaries. The upcoming 60th anniversary in 2023 will be marked with celebratory events at the pool and an evening function at the Lara Sporting Club.
The club faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with lockdowns impacting training and meets in 2020 and 2021. However, as vaccinations became available, access restrictions were lifted, allowing the club to resume training and meet participation for the 2021/2022 season. Some families within the club were affected by Covid-19, but with restrictions being removed, the swimmers could fully engage in training for the 2022 season.
At Lara Swimming Club, we have the support of our dedicated sponsors who contribute to our success in serving our members. Our club is committed to acknowledging the Wadawurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the Land, Waterways, and Skies. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are part of our Greater Geelong community today.
If you would like to learn more about our club, enquire about membership, or contact us for any further information, please reach out to us at PO Box 146, Lara, Victoria, 3212 or email us at laraswimmingclub@gmail. Com. You can also visit our website for quick access to various club resources and details. We look forward to welcoming new members and fostering a vibrant swimming community in Geelong.