The South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club, located in Wonthaggi, is a dynamic and thriving sports club that offers a comprehensive coaching programme for swimmers of all levels. From beginners looking to join a squad to experienced competitive swimmers aiming for state and national competitions, the club provides an environment for each individual to reach their maximum potential.
The club believes that success can be achieved through the collaboration of coaches, parents, committee members, and swimmers, all working together to foster encouragement, support, and team camaraderie. They understand that swimming offers not only physical fitness and sportsmanship but also valuable life skills such as dedication, commitment, self-discipline, time management, and respect.
The club is run by a dedicated Committee comprised of volunteer parents who strive for the club's future success. They have a team of highly qualified and experienced coaches who provide graded training squads and constant evaluation to ensure optimal performance. The club also organises district, state, and national level competitions, as well as awards and presentation ceremonies.
Despite the club's rapid growth in recent years, it has maintained a close-knit and family-like atmosphere. They organise camps, clinics, and intraclub meets to enhance swimmers' performances and foster bonds and friendships among swimmers and families.
The South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club was first incorporated in 1999 and started with a few sessions per week at the Wonthaggi indoor pool. Under the leadership of former Head Coach Ivan Moore, who had previously coached at Nunawading in the 1960s, the club produced talented swimmers even with its small programme. After Ivan's retirement in 2011-12, Dylan Muir took over as Head Coach and has continued to build the club with the support of an expanding coaching team.
The club now boasts over 220 registered swimmers and operates out of both Wonthaggi and Leongatha. They cater to swimmers in the development squad all the way up to national-level competitors. The club has recently produced Victorian finalists and medallists, National Qualified swimmers, and National Finalists. They have also seen great success with their 10&under swimmers who have excelled at the Victorian Country 7-10 meet, ranking among the top young swimmers in Victoria.
In 2022, the South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club established itself as one of the top country Victorian clubs, finishing 5th at the Victorian Country Championships and 2nd at the Gippsland Championships.
To stay updated with the latest news and achievements of the club, they publish a monthly newsletter on their website. The South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club is proud to be supported by various sponsors who contribute to the growth and success of the club.