Media Release: ARI NSW & ASSA joins forces to deliver the 2025 Spark Conference: Engage, Equipe, Evolve

Following two highly successful standalone conferences in 2024, the Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) and the Aquatic & Recreation Institute NSW (ARI NSW) are thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration for their 2025 events. The joint conference, themed “Spark: Engage, Equip, Evolve,” will be held at the Sofitel Wentworth in Sydney from August 12–14, 2025.

This partnership represents a strategic step forward, responding directly to member feedback and aligning with a shared vision to deliver greater value to stakeholders across the aquatics, swim school, and recreation sectors. By combining expertise and resources, ASSA and ARI NSW will deliver a platform for connection, learning, and growth that is tailored to the diverse needs of their audiences.

The 2025 Spark Conference will feature two dedicated streams designed to address the unique priorities of attendees:

1. Aquatics and Recreation Stream

• Keynotes, panels, and workshops focusing on trends, challenges, and opportunities across the broader aquatics and recreation landscape.
• Practical insights to support operational excellence, workforce development, and sector-wide advocacy.
• Networking designed to connect leaders, professionals, and stakeholders driving the future of recreation and aquatics.

2. Swim Schools Stream

• Targeted sessions addressing the specific needs of swim schools, from business growth and staff retention to water safety initiatives.
• Hands-on workshops and panel discussions to equip swim schools with tools to excel in an evolving industry.
•  Opportunities to explore innovative approaches for customer engagement and community impact.

Luke Daly, CEO of ASSA, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: "After the incredible success of our 2024 conference, we took the time to listen to our members and reflect on how we could raise the bar. Partnering with ARI NSW allows us to leverage our shared goals and expertise to deliver a truly exceptional event. Together, we’ll spark new ideas, inspire meaningful change, and showcase the very best of our industries."

Marco Blanco, Chair of ARI NSW, echoed this sentiment: "ARI NSW’s 2024 conference demonstrated the power of bringing people together to share knowledge and foster innovation. Joining forces with ASSA for 2025 is a natural progression that will allow us to create an even more impactful experience for members and trade partners. Spark: Engage, Equip, Evolve will be a conference where every delegate walks away equipped to take their career or organisation to the next level."

By offering these focused streams, the Spark Conference ensures that every delegate can access content directly relevant to their role, while also benefiting from shared opportunities for cross-industry collaboration and networking.

The theme “Spark: Engage, Equip, Evolve” encapsulates the mission to inspire action, provide practical tools, and support professional growth across all sectors represented.

Event Details Dates: August 12–14, 2025 Location: Sofitel Wentworth, Sydney