Wedding By The River

Diana and Scott on their special day

Congratulations to Programs Coordinator Diana Gibson who married Scott Baxter on Friday February 19 in an afternoon ceremony by the riverbank in Echuca. Diana says she was very relaxed on the day and was glad that she didn't blubber too much!

‘Overall it was just so much fun and I would do it all again in a flash! I loved every aspect about the planning and organising of the wedding, it was so fun!'

The happy couple honeymooned in Bali before returning to their home and farm in Picola.

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Occasional Childcare

Childcare worker Chris Perry with Clay Hall

Occasional Childcare is available at Aquamoves from Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 12.15pm.

Bookings are recommended to guarantee a place and are best made during Childcare operating hours. Please note that during peak times there is no guarantee a place will be available without a booking.

Childcare bookings can be made outside of Childcare times by phoning Customer Service on 5832 9400, however a staff member from Childcare will phone you back for confirmation of this booking.

If you are interested in using Aquamoves' Childcare please pop in and see Megan, Mel, Michelle or Chris. They will be happy to answer your queries and show you around.

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Disabled Swimmers Get A Lift

Operations Coordinator Sean Harrap tests out the new hoist Aquamoves Centre Manager Lindy Baldi looks on as Zone Lions Club Chairman Noel Chappell presents the cheque to the Mayor

The following article appeared in the Shepparton News and was written by journalist Kiel Egging.

Three years ago, Nathan Kruse was denied the opportunity to swim due to occupational health and safety issues when he tried to get in and out of the pool.

Now, the 27-year-old and other disabled swimmers in the region will have greater access to physical activity after the installation of a new hoist at Aquamoves' hydrotherapy pool.

The hoist was delivered after Nathan's father and carer - Mooroopna Lions Club member Barry Kruse - told local Lions clubs of his son's issue.

As a result, Lions clubs from across the Goulburn Valley including Shepparton, Mooroopna, Dookie, Tallygaroopna, Tatura, Merrigum, Kyabram and Dookie joined forces to fund the hoist, donating $10,500 to make the project a reality.

Barry Kruse said he was glad his son would now have the opportunity to undertake regular physical exercise.

"The only exercise he can get is in the pool, so to be able to put him back in the pool is going to be fantastic for him - he'll be here every week," Barry said.

"He's in a wheelchair all day and in a bed at night, and he gets no exercise, so this will give him so many more opportunities to do that. This is just what Lions is all about, when somebody comes up with a big project, all the people in all the clubs get behind it, and I've seen some fantastic things happen."

Aquamoves general manager Lindy Baldi said the hoist's design would allow users to be transferred safely in and out of the hydrotherapy pool.

"Patients can be transferred directly from a wheelchair or change bed to the sling and then lowered directly into the pool," she said.

"It helps both the carers and the patients provide a safe entry both in and out of the pool and allows great accessibility."

Greater Shepparton Mayor Geoff Dobson praised the Lions clubs for funding such a beneficial initiative at the centre.

"This has been a great commitment from the local Lions clubs and a real community effort," he said.

"You can see from the people here today that it's going to get a lot of use."

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Iron Woman

Jo completing the ride leg Jo with Opposition Leader Tony Abbott

Aquatic Team Leader Joanne Turner recently participated in an Ironman Distance Triathlon which consisted of a 3.8km swim, 180km ride and 42.2km run! What a MASSIVE effort!

Jo completed the course in just under 14 hours and took some time out to recount the gruelling event and share with us her thoughts about the race.

1) What motivated you to participate in this event?

The challenge! I have been doing triathlons for about five years now -each year competing in a bigger event. 2010 seemed like the right time to give the Ironman distance a go!

2) When did the event take place and how did you feel when you were standing at the starting line?

Sunday 28 March was D-Day! After 5 months of training, it was an eerie feeling being in the water with 1200 other people in semi-darkness. Knowing that you were about to embark on one of the hardest journeys of your life was pretty amazing and a little daunting at the same time.

While there were about 1200 people competing, only about 200 of those were women. This meant we got some amazing support out on the course from members in the crowd who were just happy to see a few girls having a go!

3) Any memorable moments?

The national anthem was sung just before we started. Hearing the roar from the crowd and 1200 athletes as it finished gave me goose bumps!

Heading out on the ride course, knowing that I was going to be riding solo on the bike for 6.7 hours was pretty daunting!

4) Any funny moments?

There were random people dressed up as Fred Flinstone and Barney Rubble who'd give you high-five's after each lap -they were good at distracting you from how bad you were feeling!

Also, when I was a few km's from the last turn around I realised that Tony Abbott was only about 200m ahead of me! This gave me a spur on to run (ha! I mean jog) a little faster because no one wants to be beaten by a politician! I was able to pass him just after the turn around, and lucky for me, a few mates ran that section with me and took a photo for the pool room!

5) How did you feel when you crossed the finishing line?

By the time I was about to finish my last lap, it was pitch black. But in the distance I could see the glow of the finish line. There were lights, people everywhere and music blaring. The atmosphere as you reached the blue carpet was electric and everyone was cheering for the athletes! Running down the finishing chute made all the early mornings, long rides, and missing out on time with friends and family worth it. I'll never forget it when they announced "Joanne you are an Ironman." Just amazing! Crossing the finishing line I felt on top of the word- like I could do anything! In reality I struggled to walk the 20m to the recovery tent, but my mind was still going on adrenaline so I didn't register that!

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Sarah Luelf's Engagement

We are all thrilled by Membership and Marketing Coordinator Sarah Luelf's engagement to her boyfriend Taylor Lewis. Taylor proposed to Sarah on their five year anniversary whilst holidaying in Merrimbula (NSW South Coast). Taylor surprised Sarah by springing the big question on her just as they were about to go out for dinner.

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New Staff

From left to right: Josh Stanbrook, Lauren Murphy and Laura Veal

Customer Service Officers
The customer service team welcomes on board three new appointments -Josh Stanbrook, Lauren Murphy and Laura Veal.

You will no doubt have seen Laura and Josh before in their roles as group fitness instructors, gym instructors and personal trainers. Lauren is a local girl who attended Goulburn Valley Grammar and has worked previously at Priceline. Please make them all welcome in their new roles.

Operations Portfolio
Tim Dooling has been appointed as a Duty Supervisor with an Operations Portfolio. Tim has worked with the council for three years in previous roles at Kids Town and the Stadium. You will be sure to see him travelling around the centre making sure everything is running smoothly. Find out more about Tim in his staff profile below.

Administration Officers
Jenny Serra and Ann Austin have been appointed as our permanent Administration Officers looking after the swim school. Jenny and Ann will help you out with any swimming lesson enquiries and assist with bookings.

A number of other staff have also joined the Aquamoves team over the last few months.

Gym Instructors
Leanne Niblock
David Hansford

Group Fitness/Program Instructor
Linda McKenzie

Duty Supervisors
David Hansford
Luke Gross
Tim O'Connor

Swimming Teachers
Gemma Fisher
Kylie Simpson

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Pumped About Pump

Suz Reilly likes putting her own spin on classes Suzanne has benefited greatly from the extra training

Group Fitness Instructor Suzanne Reilly is passionate about Pump! Recently Suz furthered her expertise in the weight bearing class by undertaking Advanced Pump Training or Advanced Instructor Module (AIM).

When AIM's for all Les Mills Classes were launched this year, Suz jumped at the opportunity to obtain the extra qualification. One of only eight Victorians who completed the course and the only person from regional Victoria, Suz described the 7.30am to 5pm full day of training as "flat out."

"It was nuts. There was so much info packed into a short amount of time. By the end of the day my brain was like blahhhh... I couldn't sleep for next three days."

The training included presenting a class in front of other instructors and the trainers, various gruelling fitness challenges, a focus on pump technique, plus coaching of and delivery of information to participants.

"I've noticed a big difference in my teaching. Rather than overloading participants with too much information too soon, you learn to pull it back to basics and feed the information bit by bit throughout the class. This allows more time for the instructions and cues to sink in."

The training has also helped refine Suz's technique. "It's so easy to get into bad habits. The advanced training pulls your technique right back. It also reinforces everything you already know and takes it to the next level - it really makes you think about how you teach.

With an average Pump class often drawing 35 plus participants, there is often quite a variance in participant fitness level and ability. It is therefore the instructor's responsibility to be aware of the different needs and cater for them. Suz feels she is now more aware of what is going on in the room and this helps her to create a successful positive outcome for all participants.

"You want your class to be an experience, not just a class. I like to make sure people are enjoying the music and put my own spin on it. If participants aren't walking out with a smile on their face, then I haven't achieved what I set out to do."

Suz has until the end of year to decide whether she wants to take her training even further, with the option of eventually becoming a BodyPump Trainer. In the meantime however, she will continue doing what she loves to do, helping others to achieve their fitness goals.

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Traffic Light System

A procedure is now in place whereby the popularity of our group fitness classes is closely monitored and alterations to the group fitness timetable will made based upon attendance data gathered.

A new timetable will be released each season and prior to this release, each group fitness class will be reviewed.

Classes will then fit into one of the following categories:

Green Light Classes - these classes have an average occupancy of between 60 - 100 percent. These classes are performing extremely well and there is potential to grow this program.

Orange Light Classes - these classes have an average occupancy of between 30 - 60 percent. These classes are performing solidly and have great potential for growth. These classes may be targeted for marketing to help increase the interest and participation. If this class drops in its numbers it may be at risk of moving to a Red Light.

Red Light Classes - these classes have an average occupancy of below 30 percent. The classes are performing below acceptable levels and need to be reassessed. This class will be given a flag on the next seasonal timetable.

Grab a copy of our current group fitness timetable from reception or visit http://www.aquamoves.com.au/am_services/
groupfitness/aerobics/aerobic_classes.html to see which classes are tagged with red and orange lights. This will give you the opportunity to support the low attendance classes you enjoy and ensure they remain a part of the next season's timetable!

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Orientation Classes

Dry Area Team Leader Jacqui Byrnes and Group Fitness Instructor Toni Leader believe the Orientation Classes will attract new participants

Aquamoves is proud to announce the arrival of our all new ‘Orientation Classes!'

During these classes our qualified instructors will help participants with technique, setting up equipment and the basics of the specific class.

These are a great way for beginners to be introduced to a new class.

The classes are held on the first Monday of every month for half an hour and will cost $7.85 for casual users.

Bookings are now being taken for the PUMP orientation class which will take place on Monday 7 June at 5pm. Places are limited, so contact customer service now on 5832 9400 to make sure you don't miss out on this unique opportunity.

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Verve Cafe

Verve Cafe has undergone a facelift Verve stocks a large range of protein powder

In the English dictionary, verve means vitality and energy. It is quite fitting then that Verve Cafe, situated in the heart of Aquamoves, helps to provide just that.

Yeshim Atalmis and her brother Serhat have leased the cafe for four years and recently decided a fresh new look was needed. "We've opted for a simple and modern appearance" Yeshim said. "We've had great feedback so far."

Fresh paint, new signage and the installation of a number of sleek contemporary appliances have ensured Verve remains up to date and aesthetically attractive.

After a group fitness class or gym workout, Verve Cafe is the perfect place to relax and have a coffee and cake with friends.

The cafe offers a wide variety of food and beverages to suit all tastes and requirements. Healthy lunch options are provided daily and you can choose from herbal teas and fruit smoothies for that much needed energy boost.

For the serious gym user, Verve stocks a large range of protein powder. Protein shakes are designed to aid recovery after a strenuous workout and Yeshim and Serhat can advise you on the most suitable and effective types.

Verve also cater for children's birthday parties. You can choose from three different packages to make your child's day a special one.

For more information on Birthday Party Packages, please phone Aquamoves customer service on 5832 9400 or for enquiries regarding catering or protein supplements phone Verve Cafe on 5832 9414.

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Staff Profile

Duty Supervisor (Operations Portfolio) Tim Dooling

Name: Timothy John James Dooling

Where were you born?
Horsham Victoria

Do you have any pets?
I have a pet golden retriever and also six tropical fish.

Position Title: Duty Supervisor with an Operations Portfolio

How long have you worked for Greater Shepparton Council for and in which roles?
I have worked at the Greater Shepparton Council for the past four years. I started out at Kids Town driving the miniature train and then progressed through to the café. After this I moved to the Sports Stadium as an Operations Assistant before landing the current job at Aquamoves.  

Your favourite/most rewarding aspect of your job?
To be able to scuba dive as part of my role in operations.

What do you think is your best attribute? Definitely my smile, and I'm always up for a challenge.

Which AFL team do you barrack for?
Bombers

Proudest moment?
Helping the small community of Santa Teresa for a month in the Northern Territory.

Your favourite exercise?
Lifting my feet up off the floor onto the coffee table, with a cold beer in hand.

If you could have an exercise session with any three people, who would they be and why?
Ghandi, Abe Lincoln and Mother Teresa- would be fun to see what type of exercises these people would be into! And I reckon Mother Teresa would be a pretty mean bench presser.

How would you describe yourself?
Fun, easy going kind of person.

What do you do in your free time?
Fishing, boating, driving and just generally hanging with friends.

What's your favourite word?
Drinks....

What's a saying you say a lot?
Done real good!

What scares you the most and why?
Not to be able to make my mum proud, because that's what I strive to do.

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Winter Launches!

Get ready to warm up with Aquamoves Winter Launches!

Every season, Les Mills releases a new version of each of it's group fitness classes, complete with new choreography and music!

Aquamoves will be launching the brand new classes from Monday 24 to Saturday 29 May.

If you are a member, make sure you pick up some ‘Bring A Friend For Free' passes and invite your friends along to share the experience.

For more information about our Winter Launches, please phone customer service on 5832 9400.

Launch timetables can now be collected from customer service.

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Boot Camp 23

Boot Camp 23 is our Winter Boot Camp. The program will run for four weeks.

Boot Camp helps achieve peak physical performance by pushing participants to their personal best under the guidance of trained instructors. It also challenges your mind, body and increases your physical fitness.

Participants attend three sessions per week for four weeks. During the program you will perform a range of activities including running/jogging/walking, squad runs, push ups, sit ups, lunges, dips, team challenges, circuits, obstacle courses, interval training, pack marches and boxing.

Boot Camp is suitable for beginners, as well as advanced participants. During the first session you will undergo a fitness test to determine your current level of fitness and monitor your progress.

For more information or program prices, please phone customer service on 5832 9400.

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Music To Increase Group Fitness Class Prices?

As you may have seen in recent media, the PPCA (Phonographic Performance Company of Australia) has increased its fees payable by fitness facilities for paying original artist music in group exercise classes.

As a member of Fitness Australia we will be guided by them in this matter as to what direction to take. However, Fitness Australia is continuing to investigate whether or not they can lodge an appeal against this decision.

We will endeavour to keep you informed once we have been given direction on this matter.

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New Dumbbells

Brand new dumbbells have arrived at Aquamoves! These should be on the gym floor by the end of the week!

Programs Coordinator Diana Gibson and Group Fitness Instructor Garth Osborne (pictured right) are excited by the arrival of the new gym equipment.  

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