A previously troubled swim school in Capalaba has turned a bright corner after being purchased by former competitive swimmer and triple Olympian Ashley Callus.
As reported by Redland City Bulletin in February this year, a group of parents with children enrolled at the school, then known as Capalaba Swim Stars and under different ownership, were furious that the business, without explanation to families, suddenly ceased operations following a four-week break over the summer holidays.
However, their fears were allayed following the appointment of former owner Sam Riley Swim Schools as acting manager for the business after it transpired that the new owner had suddenly become seriously ill and had been hospitalised for several months.
Sam Riley Swim Schools has since been successfully managing the business, with Mr Callus and his business partner, swimming instructor Ben Ingersoll, purchasing it about a month ago.
Mr Callus, formerly of Sheldon, learnt to swim in the Redlands and trained under swim coach David Urquhart at Cleveland Aquatic Centre.
Mr Ingersoll, of Wakerley, is also a former competitive swimmer.
Mr Callus said his background in swimming had prompted him to enter the learn to swim industry and the swim school, now called Aqua Champs Swim Schools, had been refurbished and brightened up with a new colour scheme, a children’s play area and a large, aquatic-themed wall mural.
“This opportunity presented itself and I wanted to give back to the community for the support they gave me over my twelve years of swimming at the highest level and doing most of that in the Redlands,” he said.
“It’s somewhat like a homecoming, but in a different field of experience.
“It’s exciting times and I’m proud of what we’re doing here.
“I know there’s a stigma from the past, but we are in no way, shape or form associated with what happened then and we’re not going anywhere soon.
“We’re committed to helping the kids of the Redlands learn how to swim, which is a skill for life.”
