As Term 1 approaches, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for PCYC Aquatics, with PCYC Queensland set to take over management of the much-loved learn-to-swim school at The Gap in late January.
This marks the organisation’s second PCYC Aquatics service, following the recent opening of its first facility in Allora, and signals PCYC Queensland’s growing presence in the sport and recreation space.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said the move into aquatics was a natural next step for the organisation and welcomed the opportunity to establish a presence in The Gap just months after the Allora opening.
“All Queensland children need to learn to swim, and as an organisation with such a long history of providing high quality sport and recreation activities, we are well placed for this,” he said.
“We look forward to working with the local community to make it a vibrant hub for health and connection.”
PCYC offers a range of engaging aquatic programs, including learn-to-swim classes. The pool will also open up employment opportunities for locals interested in aquatics and youth development.
Sport and Recreation Manager – Aquatics Ilka Lebbink said the response from The Gap community had already been enthusiastic.
“We have had so much interest in our learn-to-swim programs already, and we just can’t wait to welcome the community to the pool to enjoy all PCYC Aquatics has to offer,” she said.
“We are pleased to become a part of this great community.”
PCYC’s first pool is officially open and we couldn’t be more excited!
We recently celebrated our grand opening event with a fantastic turnout from the Allora community. We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout – the sun was shining, the water was sparkling, and the community spirit was in full swing.
It was fantastic to see so many locals cooling off with a dip, trying out our free classes, meeting our friendly pool and PCYC team, and enjoying the free BBQ sizzling away all morning.
This is a grand milestone as we expand into the aquatics space, creating more opportunities for fun, fitness, and community connection.
Spring is heating up, and PCYC Queensland is ready to take on management of the Allora swimming pool when it reopens on 1 October – just in time for the summer season.
This marks a major milestone for PCYC Queensland, one of the state’s largest providers of sport and recreation programs.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said the move into aquatics was a natural next step for the organisation.
“All Queensland children need to learn to swim, and as an organisation with such a long history of providing high quality sport and recreation activities, we are well placed for this. It’s an exciting time,” he said.
“We are especially excited to commence our first season at the Allora pool, and we look forward to working with the local community to make it a vibrant hub for health and connection.”
PCYC will introduce a range of engaging aquatic programs, including learn-to-swim classes, squad training, aquatic fitness sessions and more. The pool will also open up employment opportunities for locals interested in aquatics and youth development.
Sport and Recreation Manager – Aquatics Ilka Lebbink said she was keen to get things started.
“We’re planning lessons and activities for the opening, and can’t wait to welcome families to the pool,” she said.
“We are excited to really become a part of this great community.”
PCYC Queensland will also offer a monthly Drop In session at the neighbouring basketball court. Drop In is one of the organisation’s youth programs, focused on peer connection, positive mentorship and ensuring young people have a safe space to connect, enjoy themselves and seek guidance if needed.
PCYC Queensland has a significant presence in regional Queensland, with busy and popular clubs in nearby Toowoomba and Dalby delivering youth programs and activities.
“We’re delighted to welcome PCYC Queensland to Allora,” said Cr Russell Wantling, Southern Downs Regional Council’s portfolio Councillor for Active Communities.
“Their proven track record in youth development and recreation aligns perfectly with our vision for a healthier, more connected future for our region.
“The introduction of PCYC’s Drop In program is a fantastic initiative that will give our young people a safe and supportive space to grow, connect and thrive, and we’re excited to see the positive impact this will have on the Allora community.”
“I’m looking forward to a long and successful partnership with Council and with the Allora community,” said Phil.
If you’re seeking an affordable way to dive into swimming lessons, the Queensland Government’s SwimStart Vouchers are a great solution. The vouchers provide families with $150 to help pay for swimming lessons.
The earlier children start swimming, the more confident they become in the water, which is why SwimStart vouchers are available for children aged four and under.
Starting young means your child can master skills such as floating and basic strokes in our Little n Active H2O class. Once they have gained these skills they will move into a Swim Ready class and be ready to take their swimming to the next level.
Swimming is an excellent way to stay active, healthy, and build lifelong skills. Whether it’s mastering new strokes or enjoying pool parties, swimming helps children stay fit and enjoy the water safely.
Ready to dive in? Visit the Queensland Government website to find out if you’re eligible.
