Waves 2022 is the 60th National Aquatics Conference. To celebrate this anniversary, we've asked some of our past delegates what they’ve loved best about the past sixty years!

Dave McKenzie – CLM Nelson

Q. When and where did you start in Aquatics?

A. I was a junior surf lifeguard, and in 1995 I had my first shift at Nayland Pool. I was 14 and my only qualification was being a good swimmer!

Q. When did you attend your first aquatics conference?

A. I think Hanmer Springs, about 2003 or 2004. I also competed in a Lifeguard Comp in Dunedin 2007 in a mixed Tasman & Canterbury team, that’s where I met Matt Greenwood and best of buds ever since.

Q. Most influential conference speaker/presentation?

A. I really enjoy listening to Gary Johnson, I learn new things every time.

Q. Most memorable aquatics conference moment?

Its got to be being part of the winning the Lifeguard Competition each year!! Whether competing (when was younger), managing the team, or just supporting them from afar. I also enjoy networking and meeting people when doing Poolsafe auditing.