Published on Tuesday, 1 September 2026 at 7:00:46 PM
The Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool was recognised for making an exceptional contribution to the Western Australian aquatic and recreation industry last week.
The Shire facility was awarded Watch Around Water Facility of the Year (Regional) at the 2026 WA Aquatic & Recreation Industry Awards on 27 August at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The annual awards honour outstanding achievements in innovation, leadership, safety, facility management, and customer service across WA's aquatic and recreation sector.
The Watch Around Water Facility of the Year (Regional) celebrates excellence in achieving the objectives of the Watch Around Water safety and supervision program, designed to improve supervision standards at public swimming pools across WA to reduce drowning risks.
This is the second time the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool has received this accolade for implementing and upholding the program's principles, having won it in 2017.
Shire of Plantagenet Recreation Services Coordinator Mark Bird accepted the award from sponsor Jonas Leisure General Manager Alissa Lim.
The awards also recognised recipients of 10, 20, 30 and 40-Year Service Awards, which acknowledge individuals who have dedicated their careers to strengthening the aquatic and recreation industry in Western Australia, with 'Birdy' also accepting a 20-Year Service Award.
This year’s WA Aquatic & Recreation Industry Awards received a record 120 nominees across 13 award categories, and the Shire congratulates the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool team for their efforts.
Pictured: Shire of Plantagenet Multi Sports Attendant Estera Drugas and Recreation Services Coordinator Mark Bird with the Watch Around Water Facility of the Year (Regional) award at the 2026 WA Aquatic & Recreation Industry Awards.
Credit: WA Aquatic & Recreation Industry Awards by LIWA Aquatics
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