In a surprise function on Wednesday November 30, members from the club including special guest, president of Swimming Mid North Coast, Faye Rowles, gathered to acknowledge the commitment and huge contribution to the Wingham club and the sport in general.

Despite the fierce storm that descended on Wednesday night’s swimming club that resulted in the meeting being cancelled, a birthday cake and flowers were still presented to Jenny.

Second time lucky, club captains Samantha Deal and Kyle Murray presented Jenny Watts with a commemorative glass trophy as an award for her consistent support and service to the club at the next swimming club meeting on December 7. Her 70th birthday was once again celebrated with a cake.

In her time at Wingham Swimming Club, Jenny has held positions on the board including secretary, race secretary, vice president and president. The only position she says she hasn’t held is treasurer. Jenny took a six year break from the club returning in 2010 to take up positions on the board again.

Jenny’s enthusiasm and dedication to swimming didn’t stop at the Wingham Club. Jenny became and vice president of swimming Mid North Coast. She was elected to the jury of appeal committee from 1993 until 1997. Membership on the panel, which was selected from six members down to three, indicates the level of esteem in which she was regarded.

Jenny was made a life member of Wingham Swimming Club in 2003.

She undertook stroke correction courses on the weekend for many years to assist members to learn and understand the correct way to swim each stroke.

The passionate and knowledgeable swim instructor has enjoyed assisting children to improve in their swimming and enjoys interacting with the parents and children.

“I have watched many children come through the club and am now watching their children start to swim,” Jenny said.

A highlight for Jenny was presenting a medal at a swimming carnival to James Magnussen, who has since gone on to win two gold and a silver medal at this year’s FINA World Championships in Shanghai.

Her time at the pool’s edge is coming to an end as she looks to retire and have a rest from the responsibilities of her position.

Members of Wingham Swimming Club are proud to recognise and thank Jenny for her contribution to the club over her 30 year career and wish her the happiest of 70th birthday celebrations.