Published on Monday, 13 April 2026 at 10:19:55 AM
Five young East Pilbara aquatic staff are taking the next step in their careers, travelling to Port Hedland to complete specialist training that will help support safe and reliable pool operations across the region.
Josh Allen (Trainee Aquatics and Recreation), Marquisha Slater-Hall (Aquatic Administration Officer), Rhashan Hodder (Lifeguard), Able Cole (Lifeguard) and Matt Devete (Lifeguard) are currently undertaking the Aquatic Technical Operations Course, gaining the skills needed to help manage aquatic facility operations across the Shire.
The course equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to manage aquatic facility operations, including water testing, chemical dosing, risk management and working within the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations and the Western Australian Department of Health Code of Practice.
Following completion of the course, the team will spend the next three months undertaking practical workbooks and on-the-job training to further build their capabilities in areas such as backwashing systems, maintaining water quality, chemical balancing and developing leadership skills in aquatic facility operations.
Shire President Cr Anthony Middleton said investing in local skills was important for the long-term sustainability of community facilities across the East Pilbara.
“Pools are a big part of life out here, especially during the hotter months,” Cr Middleton said.
“Seeing five young locals step up and get this training is exactly what we need.
“It means we’re building a local workforce that can keep these facilities safe, open and running properly.”
Mel Warren, Vice President of the Leisure Institute of Western Australia, said developing local capability in aquatic operations was particularly important for regional communities.
“Running a public pool safely involves far more than people often realise,” Ms Warren said.
“This training gives participants the technical knowledge needed to manage water quality, equipment and safety standards, while also building leadership skills within aquatic facilities.
“Seeing five local participants undertaking this training together is a fantastic outcome for the East Pilbara and helps strengthen the future workforce for aquatic facilities across the region.”
The initiative marks the first time five local young people from the Pilbara have undertaken the specialised aquatic operations training together.
Upon successful completion, participants will have the opportunity to apply for full-time or part-time roles within the Shire’s aquatic facilities, supporting future pool operations across Newman, Marble Bar and Nullagine.
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