A huge congratulations to Karen Baildon on being awarded the ASCTA “Meritorious Service to the Teaching of Swimming in Australia” award.
Karen, our Co-Founder and General Manager, has dedicated her career to improving swimming education and drowning prevention. Her passion for teaching infants and young children to swim safely has helped shape the Superfish approach - one that prioritises confidence, safety, and genuine skill development.
Karen has been a driving force in the swimming industry for over two decades, working closely with industry leaders and organisations to continuously refine and elevate learn to swim programs. Her focus has always been clear - to create premium programs that don’t just teach swimming, but save lives.
Her impact extends far beyond the pool. Through her leadership, Superfish Swim Schools have built a reputation for high standards, exceptional customer experience, and a commitment to doing things properly.
“I have a particular passion for drowning prevention and infant swimming, ensuring our swim schools provide premium, life-saving learn to swim programs. I am also proud of our high customer service standards and constantly strive to ensure that we excel in all that we do.” – Karen Baildon
In receiving the award, Karen acknowledged the team behind her success, highlighting the dedication and hard work that goes into delivering quality swim education every day.
Her recognition by ASCTA reflects not only her personal contribution, but the collective effort of a team committed to making a real difference in children’s lives. We couldn’t be prouder.
Video Transcription
ASCTA:Ian Hanson:
The one and only Karen Baildon. Karen has been the General Manager and a learn to swim and drowning prevention expert at Superfish on the Gold Coast since 1996. Swimming has been a lifelong passion.
Karen has a clear mission - focusing on drowning prevention and swimming development, and working closely with industry bodies, leaders in swimming development, and experts worldwide, drawing on her vast experience.
To create premium learn to swim programs that save lives and teach children to swim the right way.
Karen’s contribution to the industry over the past 25 years has seen her deservedly awarded this Meritorious Service to the Teaching of Swimming in Australia.
Karen:
Oh, thank you so much everyone. Thank you to ASCTA and Swim Australia. I’m really, really touched and very surprised by this - especially after last year.
To be recognised now, and as it’s also my 25th year in the swimming industry, it’s really, really lovely.
And obviously, nothing is possible without my incredible support team. They work tirelessly day in, day out.
So as much as it’s wonderful to be recognised, I also want to acknowledge them. I know how hard they work.
Thank you.
