Water has always been a big part of John Crockett’s life and when the novelty of retirement wore off, he decided to give being a lifeguard a go.
The retired Ford engineer has been a lifeguard at Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre, North Bellarine Aquatic Centre and Splashdown Leisure Centre for nearly 12 months.
“At first, I thought it would be all young kids and it wouldn’t be for me, then a few days later I thought ‘maybe I can be of value and share some of my experiences with the young crew’,” John said.
“The interview was a group interview, and I was the oldest there by about 35 years, but they were all great and very inclusive.”
John enjoys the flexible hours, as well as getting to meet so many new people and is keen to highlight the importance of keeping an eye on children around water and recognises that most parents he sees are doing the right thing.
“But you can be the best parent and still take your eyes off them for a second – that’s why we’re there to be an additional set of eyes,” he said.
“For example, a really diligent dad was with his little boy in the deeper 25 metre pool, which was way over the little boy’s head.
“The little boy was hanging on to the side of the pool while playing with his dad. Dad briefly turned to talk to someone next to him and the little boy let go of the edge and went straight to the bottom – it was so quick.
“The dad turned back around and the boy was gone, he quickly realised and pulled him back up – the look on the dad’s face was one of horror then relief. This all happened in an instant so it just shows you how quick it can happen.”
John’s most memorable moment was when a little boy aged around three approached him and said “Thank you, Mr Lifeguard for keeping me safe at the pool today”.
