Published 1 July 2024
National Sports & Physical Activity Convention | IAKS 2024 Shines a Spotlight on Roadmap to Strengthened Sector Impact
The National Sports and Physical Activity Convention (NSC) IAKS 2024, hosted at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on 27-28 June, has been a beacon for industry leaders in sport, recreation, and leisure management.
This year's event was proudly supported by Royal Life Saving Society – Australia (RLSSA), reinforcing their commitment to advancing the aquatic industry and drowning prevention sectors.
Key Highlights
Aquatic Leisure Management Stream
The aquatic leisure management stream, facilitated by Royal Life Saving, highlighted critical trends and practices for the sector. The focus was on sustainable and inclusive practices, youth engagement, and environmental stewardship. This stream underscored the importance of diversifying the user base and workforce within the industry to enhance community well-being.
Image 1: RLSSA President Alex Ash chairs Workshop
Workshop Highlights
- Workshop: Sustainable Practices in Aquatic Facility Management This workshop delved into the urgent need for sustainable practices within aquatic facilities. It emphasised the adoption of renewable energy sources and programs designed to reduce the ecological footprint of the industry.
- Workshop: Industry Workforce Development The discussion here centred on the continual development of the industry’s workforce, streamlining professional accreditation schemes, and ensuring the provision of safe environments for all patrons. These measures are crucial to maximising the social value of aquatic facilities.
Debate on Management Models for Public Aquatic Facilities
A significant highlight was the debate on outsourcing versus insourcing management models for public aquatic facilities. An all-star panel of industry and local government executives shared insights into the pros and cons of each model, providing valuable perspectives for stakeholders.
Image 2: Debaters (L-R) Included: Gar Holohan, CEO Aura Leisure; Nadine Kemp, Executive General Manager – Recreation, the Y Victoria; Nick Cox, CEO Belgravia Leisure; John Oxley, CEO Stockport Active; Kim Critchley, Unit Manager Aquatic Leisure Services Merri-bek Council; Alison Dixon, CEO Western Leisure Services; & Justin Scarr, CEO RLSSA (as Chair)
Emerging Leaders Scholars Program
The emerging leaders scholars engaged in a robust program, including a workshop with VicHealth scholars on the first day and networking sessions with industry CEOs on the second day. These activities aimed to build stronger networks and relationships with industry leaders, equipping the scholars to bring back innovative learnings to their organisations and communities.
Image 3: Emerging Leaders Scholars and Organisers
Keynote Sessions
The convention featured compelling keynote sessions focused on youth engagement, inclusion & cultural safety, creating inviting active recreation spaces, and designing liveable cities. These sessions provided a visionary outlook on promoting participation and fostering healthier communities.
Image 4: Big Issues Keynote: Making Sport More Inclusive and Culturally Safe for First Nations Peoples
Justin Scarr, Chief Executive Officer of RLSSA, commented: "We were pleased to support this pivotal event. We love to bring people and groups together to build solutions. In this case we looked at a range of topics including sustainable and inclusive practices and ensuring that aquatic facilities continue to serve as vital health, social, water safety and drowning prevention hubs for everyone in communities nationwide."
Martin Sheppard, Chief Executive Officer of NSC, added: "The collaboration with Royal Life Saving is crucial for addressing the evolving needs of the aquatic industry. Together, we aim to drive innovation and best practices that will benefit communities across Australia."
The NSC | IAKS 2024 has once again demonstrated its role as a key platform for knowledge exchange and industry advancement, pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking to inspire innovation and drive participation in sports and recreation.
For more information about the event and to stay updated on future conventions, visit the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention website.
