Podcast Episode – Paul Fernee

Welcome to another episode of the Aquatic Mentors podcast. I am your host, Katrina van Eyk.

In this episode I interview an industry professional who has been involved in implementing aquatics, recreation, sports facility management and community engagement within Local Government for the past twelve years. So please extend a big welcome to the podcast for Paul Fernee.

After finishing his studies in applied science Paul found it hard to find work which complemented his so he took on a lifeguarding position and worked his way to a duty manager position for aquatic facilities in Melbourne.

During the interview Paul shares the struggles he found in acquiring higher level roles in aquatics management during his early years and the advice he would give to young people these days looking to break into that level of employment.

Paul came across an advertisement for a aquatic’s role in rural Victoria with the Buloke Shire where he spent 10 years running the Shires 7 outdoor facilities. During these 10 years Paul continued to enhance his skills through future study and taking on additional roles I the Shire.

In 2019 Paul moved to his new role as manager of Community Engagement at the neighbouring shire of Gannawarra in Northern Victoria. His roles now include overseeing the management of the shire’s outdoor aquatic facilities as well as an indoor therapy pool and assisting other community owned aquatic facilities.

The Kerang Amateur Swimming and Lifesaving Club of which I am president of is situated in one of the Gannawarra Shires outdoor facilities. I am excited to be able to share Paul’s journey in aquatics and to highlight another profession involved with swimming and the diversity the aquatic industry brings across Australia.

Through today’s episode Paul shares insights into his journey, as well as his thoughts on swimming in Australia and where he see’s swimming moving to in the future.

Please share what inspiration you draw from Paul’s interview on our Facebook page, Aquatic Mentors.

If you want to share your aquatic story then please contact me via my email: regionalswimclinics@outlook.com as I know we can all learn from your experience.

So, let’s jump in and find out more about Paul’s journey in swimming.

Katrina van Eyk's Contact Information:

Aquatic Mentors - https://www.aquaticmentors.com.au/

Facebook - Aquatic Mentors

Regional Swim Clinics - www.regionalswimclinics.com.au

Email - info@regionalswimclinics.com.au

Facebook - Regional Swim Clinics

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-van-eyk-261851124/

Paul Fernee’s Contact Information:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fernee-731a65a0/

Email: council@gannawarra.vic.gov.au