Deni’s swimming legacy

The first Learn to Swim class was held on the Edward River at Deniliquin in November 1922.

With the program still running today, it is said to be one of the longest running Learn to Swim campaigns in Australia.

Historical markers recognising this important milestone were installed at Deniliquin’s McLean Beach - the location of those early lessons - in May.

Originally planned for November last year, the centenary celebrations were delayed due to flooding.

The markers also pay tribute to the man who founded the program in Deniliquin - Hector McLean.

McLean Beach, where the swimming lessons were held, was in those days known as Brewery Bend.

It was renamed in honour of ‘Mr Mac’ on the 50th anniversary of the program.

As the only person in the community with Royal Life Saving Society certificates at the time, he was the community’s choice to get a program up and running after some tragic drownings.

Classes were held from October to March each year, daily at 6.30am.

For 24 years Mr Mac taught alone, later receiving assistance from local citizens and Deniliquin Swim Club members, many of whom were young people he had taught to swim.

While no longer held on the river, the program started all those years ago continues in Deniliquin.

The centenary project has now also inspired the expansion of an historical exhibition at the Deniliquin & District Historical Society Museum - located at the end of Macauley St, which can also be accessed by using the Beach to Beach walk which starts at McLean Beach.

A new centrepiece is Mr Mac’s stop watch, which was donated to the museum by his youngest daughter Ruth Robinson while in Deniliquin for the celebrations.

Historical Society president Lindsay Renwick said swimming carnival trophies, photographs and media coverage of the Learn to Swim program and every carnival held will also be part of the exhibition.

The Historical Society Museum is located in the former Police Inspector’s residence and is a treasure trove of Deniliquin and district history across a number of subject areas.

It is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10am to noon, or at other times by prior arrangement. Contact the museum on 0428 359 297 or email denihistorical@gmail.com.