“The expression ‘swim the length’ relates to our goal that the knowledge acquired by members becomes a skill for life, passed down through generations,” Mrs Somerton said.
“The Tairāwhiti region and lifestyle is surrounded by water. Therefore, the importance of water confidence and safety for our people is paramount in our region.
“At Comet we teach our whānau to be successful swimmers and stay safe when enjoying our moana (ocean), awa (river/stream), roto (lake) and hōpua (pools).”
The club has successfully taught thousands of people in the community to be safe in, on, and around the water.
“Comet’s water confidence lessons, learn to swim, stroke development, squad sessions and other specialised programmes offer our community the knowledge, confidence and skills to pursue different aquatic pathways, enhancing their well-being over a lifetime.”
Comet’s history from conception to present day began in 1958 when Beth Meade founded Comet Swimming Club.
1962: Beth called a meeting with Gisborne District Council (Council) to discuss the possibility of a new swimming complex.
1974: The Gisborne Olympic Pool Complex opened and Comet were among the first users. Beth continued to be a driving force.
1995: Comet partnered with the council to cover the 50m pool. Comet then undertook a major component of required fundraising and support for that project.
1996: Beth’s son Greg Meade started as the fulltime coach and manager of the club.
1997: Elgin School pool upgraded and Comet began Learn to Swim lessons there.
2019: Greg Meade retired as club manager after 23 years and Rochelle Somerton took over.
2020: Glenn Hamblyn joined the club as head coach.
2023: Kiwa Pools Opened — “A wonderful opportunity to work together with the council for the benefit of the community,” Mrs Somerton said.
2023: Comet won the Swimming NZ Innovation Award and were awarded second place in the Swimming NZ Swim School of the Year.
2023: Comet has grown to have 17 employees.
“All are qualified or working towards their Swimming NZ qualifications,” Mrs Somerton said.
“We teach more than 1200 individual swimmers each week.
“On top of that, we work with over 20 schools from around the East Coast region, each student receiving 10 free lessons a year, with numerous pre schools, kohanga and sport groups in the mix as well.
“We have inclusive lessons for our disability sector both in groups and individually.
“Wai Wāhine lessons offer women in our region 20 free lessons over the space of two school terms.
“We also offer migrant community classes to ensure our migrant community can gain skills to feel confident in the water around our region, and we offer Taurikura — Māmā and Pēpi bilingual classes.”
Mrs Somerton said Comet aims to cater for the whole community.
“Our amazing staff and board has the expertise and skill to help our community enjoy the water everyday and open up aquatic pathways, as we celebrate 65 years.”
On the weekend of December 2-3, Comet will run their annual Comet Fastwater Meet — the first swim meet at the new Kiwa Pools.
“Swimmers will be here from Hawke’s Bay to enjoy the new facility.”
Comet hopes to give away 65 spot prizes during the weekend in celebration of 65 years in working with this community.
“If anyone would like to sponsor a race or a prize please get in touch — cometswimming@gmail.com”.
