Council pays tribute to local Ironman legend, Barry Rodgers

Published Date
19/10/2016
News Topic
Council, Sport
Barry Rodgers

Randwick City Council has announced a permanent tribute to late Barry Rodgers, with the renaming of the 25m indoor pool at the Des Renford Leisure Centre to the Barry Rodgers Pool.

Mr Rodgers, who passed in June 2016, was a much loved member of Randwick City, known best for his achievements as a triple Ironman champion and his commitment to surf lifesaving as a member of Maroubra Surf Club.

Mr Rodgers also dedicated a significant part of his life to teaching children to swim, joining his brother John to run the John and Barry Rodgers Swim School at Heffron Pool.  It was here that they trained beginners through to Olympic champions such as Max Metzker, Graeme Brewer and Ron McKeon. 

The renaming of the pool to honour Barry Rodgers is also apt with Barry and his brother, John, both having helped to construct the pool that is still used today for the Learn to Swim program at the Des Renford Leisure Centre.

Mayor of Randwick, Noel D’Souza, said Mr Rodgers was a loved member of the community and was an inspiration to many young and aspiring athletes over the years, having been named Sydney’s Greatest Ever Surf Lifesaver in 2005.

“Not only did Mr Rodgers compete for Maroubra and win the national Ironman title for three consecutive years, but in surf lifesaving, he won six national titles and 11 NSW state titles.  His dedication and commitment to the surf lifesaving community was incredible, having volunteered for over 60 years.

“His contribution to the local community is unparalleled and the renaming of the pool to the Barry Rodgers Pool seems like a fitting tribute to honour a terrific local hero, one who is greatly missed but will be remembered for the years to come,” said Mayor D’Souza.

Last Updated: 1 March 2022
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