Aquatic Mentors
Ruth Smith
Ruth has been involved in teaching and coaching swimming for 42 years, and offering Aquatic Therapy for the past 8 years. She has travelled overseas studying various ways of working with neurodiverse students and those with challenging behaviours using the magical medium of water. In 2022 Ruth was awarded the NSW and National Austswim Award for Access and Inclusion for her work in this space.
Now an Aquatic Mentor, she shares with Lyn a passion to share her knowledge, wisdom and expertise in this rewarding area. When there is downtime, Ruth enjoys walking at sunrise, going to the movies and a hot chai.
Lyn O’Brien
Lyn taught full-time Physical Education and Primary classroom teaching with the Education Department for 8 years before leaving to have a family. She returned to part-time work with the Department while concurrently running her various swim centres. She has taught all ability levels and she is especially interested in the area of swimming for students with special needs. Also, she presents adult training courses, Swimming and Water Safety, Access and Inclusion. Infant swimming and has presented at many conferences around Australia. Aquatic Mentors, is the culmination of over 30 years of working with a diverse clientele with special needs. In her leisure time, Lyn enjoys exercising, reading and especially having coffee with friends.
