At 93, Joan is proof that staying active and social can be one of life’s greatest joys.

A familiar face at Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, she’s been part of the community since it opened in 2021 - and you’ll still find her in the pool most days of the week.

Joan grew up in Ballarat, Victoria, and stayed there (except during her time at Melbourne University), until she got married. She then spent many years in Cambridge before moving to Sydney in 2010.

“I’ve been in Randwick for about 15 years now,” she says. “I started aqua classes at UNSW Fitness and Aquatic Centre. When Gunyama opened, a lot of us followed our instructor, Rob, to Gunyama Park. I’ve been coming ever since.”

What does your week look like?

Joan laughs, “Busy! I do nine aqua classes a week - two classes a day for four days, and one on Tuesdays. It keeps me fit and moving, which I love.”

Her aqua routine began after developing knee issues and she was unable to do her regular gym floor routines, but it quickly became much more than just exercise. “It keeps me strong enough to keep doing the things I love - especially travel.

"I met my husband at the University of Melbourne - he was an academic so I ended up traveling with him to all the conferences.

"I still visit Cambridge every couple of years to see dear friends, and I’ve got family in Melbourne, Brisbane and Italy too.”

Water has always been part of my life. And Gunyama Park gives me a reason to keep enjoying it - for fitness, for friendship, and for the sheer fun of it all.

What do you enjoy most about coming to Gunyama Park?

“The people,” she says warmly. “Everyone is so friendly. Coming to a new place when you’re in your older years can be daunting, but the aqua group here made it so special.

We always have coffee at the café afterwards - sometimes even birthday parties! I recently had my 93rd birthday at Gunyama Cafe with around 30 of my aqua friends.”

That sense of community has meant a lot to Joan, especially in recent years.

“When my husband passed away, everyone here was so kind and supportive. It really is a wonderful group - so welcoming and generous.”

What keeps you motivated?

“I just want to keep doing what I’m doing,” Joan says with a smile. “Moving, laughing, having fun with everyone. I love seeing the toddlers and kids splashing about, too - it brings so much life to the place.”

A lifelong swimmer, Joan recalls paddling canoes with her brother during the war, swimming at Torquay Beach, and doing a lot of snorkelling and diving.

“Water has always been part of my life,” she says. “And Gunyama Park gives me a reason to keep enjoying it - for fitness, for friendship, and for the sheer fun of it all.”

Her story is a beautiful reminder that community, connection and a love of the water can keep us young at heart. Thank you for sharing your story, Joan!