Swimming WA has awarded Life Memberships to two remarkable individuals, Mrs. Gina Rinehart and Steve Hill. These prestigious accolades were presented at Swimming WA's Awards of Excellence on Saturday, 7th October, to acknowledge their extraordinary contributions to the sport of swimming in Western Australia.
Mrs. Gina Rinehart's advocacy for swimming in Western Australia spans an astonishing 32 years. Initially through the Hancock Family Medical Foundation (HFMF) and later as the Chair of Hancock Prospecting, she has played an invaluable role in shaping the future of swimming in WA. Her enduring support has been instrumental in nurturing the swimming community from grassroots to Olympic levels.
The funding provided by Hancock Prospecting has played a pivotal role in organising pool meets, open water competitions, and delivering essential services to swimming club members. Mrs. Rinehart has also consistently supported the Annual Awards Night, where she presents the Patron's Award to outstanding West Australian swimmers. Notably, in 2020, her financing of the CLOGS underwater camera system significantly benefited high-performance swimmers, leading to remarkable successes at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
“Swimming is in our DNA in WA” said Darren Michael, President of Swimming WA, “and our Awards’ night is about honoring those who make up this DNA through shared values and commitment to our sport such as new Life Members’ Mrs Gina Rinehart AO and Steve Hill, who have contributed over decades to the sport, as well celebrating the achievements and potential of the new generation of young stars coming through, like Iona, hopefully with more than a chance of Olympic success in Brisbane 2032, if not before.”
“I especially would like to recognise and thank Mrs Gina Rinehart AO, who is the single biggest financial contributor to the sport of swimming across the country and most deserving to be inducted as a Life Member to our sport here in WA. As Patron, not only has she enthusiastically supported our WA swimmers, here, across Australia and most recently internationally in Japan, where Australia presented the best international team ever, including West Australian, Brianna Throssell, but she is role model for our hardworking swimmers to achieve excellence."
Mrs. Gina Rinehart's incredible dedication to swimming in WA has made an immeasurable impact. Her exceptional contributions have merited her the prestigious Life Membership of Swimming WA. In recognition of her remarkable support, Swimming WA expresses gratitude to Mrs. Rinehart, acknowledging the invaluable role she has played in the Western Australian swimming community.
Steve Hill's journey in the world of swimming has spanned 15 years, during which he has left an indelible mark on the sport. As a steadfast contributor, his vision for clear opportunities in swimming has fostered an environment where swimmers of all ages and aspirations can thrive. Serving as the President of both West Coast and UWA West Coast Swimming Clubs, he has been instrumental in facilitating high-quality training and extensive competition opportunities.
Hill’s commitment extends beyond his own clubs, as he has actively offered support and mentorship to other swimming clubs. His passion for inclusion has greatly contributed to the growth of Multi-Class opportunities in swimming. Notably, he has also made significant contributions as a Technical Official and World Aquatics Open Water Official, exemplifying his dedication to the sport.
In recognition of his remarkable service, Steve Hill received Life Membership from UWA West Coast Swimming Club in 2016. Furthermore, he was named Swimming WA's 'Technical Official of the Year' in 2021 and 'Volunteer of the Year' in 2022. His outstanding contributions and dedication make him a worthy recipient of Life Membership in Swimming WA.
The awards presented to Mrs. Gina Rinehart and Steve Hill represent not only their personal achievements but also the enduring spirit and passion that continue to drive swimming in Western Australia to new heights.
