Debbie's Learn to Swim

Hi all, Jess here, I have decided to take up the starlight super swim this year. This is a great program to help sick kids all over the country and also get fit at the same time. My challenge starting at 5km's by the end of February. I would love it if you could possibly spare a few dollars to sponsor me??

Jess Robertson - Starlight Super Swim Challenge Make a donation today to help make a splash for sick kids in hospital

We are back from the most amazing cruise to Niugini.
Thank you to all of our parents and past parents who made this possible by donating to the gofund me page that was organised by the wonderful Rebecca Armstrong.
You have given me the most amazing retirement gift. Such a beautiful, special time that I will treasure forever. You are all truly such an amazing group of wonderful people.
I miss you all, especially my little and big kiddies.
You are all welcome to pop in for a chat, a cuppa or just so I can cuddle your babies.
Here are some photos of the trip.

Tonight's sunset

Our room with a view

We have internet for 24 hours so just popping up a quick update of our trip so far.
We have had some great sea days, so easy to put your feet up and just rest and wallow in the pool.
First Port day was in Alotau, saw some traditional dances and did a tour of the markets and a school.
Second Port day was Conflict Islands. Truly a beautiful place. White sand and clear water, snorkelling was amazing, fish life was unbelievable.

We are off on our big adventure today.
We are so excited, it's hard work being retired.
Thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart for making this happen. You are all truly amazing.
I will post lots of pics when we arrive back in Brisbane.
I miss you all and all my beautiful kiddies so very much, you are always welcome to drop in for a coffee and a chat x

Bon voyage, Debbie sets sail this afternoon for Papua New Guinea on her retirement cruise! Wishing her a wonderful trip full of great adventures, relaxation and the pampering she deserves!

This afternoon we celebrated the retirement of a truly remarkable woman, Debbie Robertson Givney. In the lead up to her retirement we worked hard to secretly crowd fund a bucket list gift for her (a cruise to PNG). Now the cat is out of the bag and Debbie has been thoroughly surprised we wanted to share the link with all those who may have missed it while we were keeping it under wraps. If you'd like to contribute and say thank you to Debbie please head to Gofund.me/6020d533

With all our love, the families of Debbie's Learn To Swim

Well, today marks my first day of retirement. The last 21 years have been truly amazing. Teaching swimming was not something I set out to do; I simply fell into it. It started from all the early mornings and afternoons taking my own kids for lessons and squad training. Sitting by the side of the pool just waiting was hard; it was suggested I start teaching to fill the time. I never would have believed it would bring me to this point in my life. Teaching children to swim, I believe, is the most important skill of their life. It's not just about swimming, but being safe around the water and teaching them how to save themselves and each other. We have even taught many of our wonderful parents to swim; you are all so very brave, its a huge achievement, as learning as an adult is so very hard. It definitely takes you out of your comfort zone. I still hold your friendships dear. We have had the most amazing community support over the years; the children in our community are hands down the most amazing and well-behaved little people on the planet, which is a huge reflection of the values and morals of our wonderful parents. It has been an absolute privilege watching so many of our children grow up. Some of our children that started in parent and baby classes are now into their last year of primary school; one of my first-year high school boys asked to come back for one last swim. Yes, I have had the privilege of watching them grow up. I will miss them more than they will ever know. This week was about water fights and fun. I think the children decided to take their revenge out on us teachers for all the hard work we asked of them. We were blasted from all angles, lots of head shots, even from the littlest of our crew. To my amazing, talented staff, Melinda Hejda, Jess Robertson, and staff from previous years, especially Teresa Harris and Sophie Salvesani, I couldn't have done it without you. I will never forget your dedication, not only to me but to our children. You guys are awesome.
Thank you also for all the wonderful thoughtful gifts that we have received this week; you are all truly amazing. We have all been blessed. We have all cried many tears this week. It has been bittersweet, but time for a new chapter. If the kids need a cuddle or you need a cuppa, I'm sure you all know where we live. x Debbie

Hello to all our valued swimming families. I am reaching out to as many families as possible. This young boy is a member of our learn to swim family. Unfortunately, he has been involved in a devastating, life-altering freak accident. We would greatly appreciate any donation you feel comfortable making. Every contribution, regardless of size, is a significant help.

Donate to Support for Cade After Life-Altering Accident, organized by Iona Johnson Hello everyone, We’re reaching out to you today on behalf of our dear f… Iona Johnson needs your support for Support for Cade After Life-Altering Accident

We're diving right in for one last 'Pyjama Day'.
Make sure you bring your pjs next week for the very last Debbie's Learn To Swim Pyjama day.

To all our wonderful swimming families and community.
It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to hang up my swimmers.
After a lot of thought and considerations we have decided that it is now time for us to close the gates of our swim school that I have loved for so may years and to embark on the journey of retirement.
Teaching all your beautiful children has been a huge part of my life and a chapter that I have thoroughly enjoyed.
I started Debbie's Learn to Swim in 2004 with a goal to teach as many children the life saving skill of swimming and in that timeI have made many, many wonderful friends and have achieved so much more than I had imagined. Seeing each and every child that has come through our gates has been a blessing and something I will miss very much. Unfortunately, it's time to close this chapter and embark on new adventures.
I would like to thank each and everyone of the whole community for the wonderful support I have received. I have absolutely loved every day doing what I love best, especially getting to spend each day with your beautiful children.
I would also like to acknowledge and express a huge heartfelt thank you to my wonderful employees past and present. Thank you for your hard work, time and dedication. Jess and Melinda have been by my side every step of the way and for that I am so thankful.
I would also like to thank Davo, my hubby, for his time and hard work in building and maintaining such a beautiful home environment for us to teach in.
I would like to thank you all for being a part of this journey with me. We will be finishing at the end of term 2, Saturday the 27th of June 2025.
Debbie