Uniting the Aquatics Industry: A Conversation with Martin Sheppard

In this episode, host Luke is joined by Martin Sheppard, co-founder and owner of the National Sports Convention, and a veteran with over 45 years of experience in the aquatics and recreation industry. Martin shares his extensive background, starting as a pool lifeguard in the UK to managing multiple leisure facilities across Australia. Together, they discuss the recent ARNA meeting and the crucial need for a united voice within the industry to better influence government policy and funding.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Martin’s Background: Martin recounts his journey from being a pool lifeguard to becoming a key figure in the aquatics industry, managing leisure centres, and contributing to national sports initiatives.
• Purpose of the ARNA Meeting: Martin explains the objective of the ARNA meeting, which was to explore whether the industry needs a single, united voice to effectively communicate with government bodies and secure funding.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The discussion highlights the fragmentation within the industry and the missed opportunities due to the lack of a unified message. Martin emphasises the importance of aligning the industry's goals with government agendas, particularly in areas like health promotion, crime prevention, and community development.
• Case Studies: Martin shares examples of successful community initiatives, including a social value assessment project in Brimbank, Victoria, and a crime reduction program in Liverpool, UK, both of which demonstrate the significant impact of aquatics and recreation programs on local communities.
• Next Steps for the Industry: Martin outlines the immediate next steps for the industry, including forming a small working group to create a clear, concise document that articulates the industry's size, impact, and alignment with government priorities. This document will be used to engage with government officials and advocate for the sector.