Our History
The year is 1958. A group of teenagers are hanging around a pool in summer - Nothing unusual about that - But the late Joan Hendy, the supervisor of the newly opened Eastern Baths at that time, had the initiative to see the potential in these youngsters to form a swimming club. And so, Garden City Olympian (GCO) Swim Club began, with Ted Chandler as its first president.
Joan Hendy went on to become a Life Member of the Club, and retired after teaching learn to swim for 25 years. During these early years many well known names were associated with the Club. Keith Rawle, who became President in 1959, is well known for playing in Essendon’s premiership team in 1949 and for coaching Redan F.C to their premiership in 1953.
Current Day
Today the club caters for the varied needs of its members, from those looking to improve their technique or fitness, to those looking to compete. The club is a family oriented club, but you don't need to have children to become a club member or to become involved.
The club offers
- Squad training for non-competitors and competitors of all levels - Novice, Junior, Intermediate & Senior
- To join as a Novice, individuals should be able to confidently swim 25m Freestyle and 25m Backstroke.
- For those looking to compete, the club nominates a number of meets throughout the year at which it will attend. Competitors can attend these or any of the other Swim Victoria registered events (subject to entry eligibility requirements).
- Throughout the year the club holds Club days giving all members the opportunity to assess their progress following all their hard work and most importantly to have some fun! Various events are offered (including family relays) giving members a chance to practice their starts and get (unofficial) times for their chosen strokes/distances.
- A Club Presentation Night is held each year following the club's AGM.
For more information contact us by email at ballaratgcotreasurer@gmail.com.