Meet the Team: Katrina

Jonathon Mcmahon • February 16, 2026

Let’s get to know Vanessa a little better… our Aquatic Development Manager.

What’s your favorite swimming stroke and why?

My favorite stroke? Butterfly, hands down. Maybe it's because I grew up during the reign of Queen Suzie O'Neill—aka Madam Butterfly—or maybe it’s because my mum couldn’t bear to watch me thrash around like a drowning moth. Either way, I was hooked! 🤣


Did you have a swim teacher when you were a kid? What were they like?

I swam at The Swim Factory back in the 90s—when the goggles were foggy and the memories were strong. My parents always said the coaches were amazing, and honestly, The Swim Factory was (and still is) the best in Ipswich for a reason. The ones who really stood out for me were my first teacher Andrew, my squad coach Stephan, and of course, Peter—because every great swim chapter has Peter in it.


What’s the coolest place you’ve ever gone swimming?

I haven’t swum anywhere particularly fancy, but a firm family favorite—especially with my Nanny Pat—was Dicky’s Beach up at the Sunny Coast. Not exactly Olympic trials, but hey, if it’s good enough for Nanny Pat, it’s good enough for me!

If you could swim with any sea animal, what would it be?


If I could swim with any animal, I’d probably choose a sea otter. They always look like they’re having a great time, floating around and just enjoying life. I feel like we’d get     along pretty well in the water!

Have you ever worn flippers, goggles, or a snorkel to the grocery store—just for fun?


No, but challenge accepted 🐠

What’s your favorite pool game? (Marco Polo, anyone?)

 

Pool Noodle Jousting, its just so much fun!

What’s your swim superpower? (Like blowing the biggest bubbles or the fastest kick!)

 

I can hold my breath for 2mins

Can you float like a starfish for a whole minute without moving?  

Nope, but I wish I could! 🤣


If you could invent a new swimming stroke, what would you call it?

The silly goose, a wacky sideways wiggle 


Do you like to swim more in the pool or the ocean?

In the ocean, I love how warm sand feels on my feet 


Have you ever seen a dolphin or sea turtle while swimming?

Yes I saw a turtle at the beach on holiday a few years ago


What’s the silliest thing that ever happened during a swim lesson?

So, I was attacked by a dinosaur once… okay, maybe not a real one, but it felt that way when I nearly lost my finger!


Let’s just say, those prehistoric claws don’t mess around.


What’s your favorite snack after swimming?

Apart from a Nap nothing beats a vegemite sandwich 


If you were a water superhero, what would your name be?

MC Freestyler 



Why do you love teaching kids how to swim?

I love to see them all grow into becoming their own little swim champions! Especially when they come and show us how they won a ribbon at their school swimming carnival 


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