A name synonymous with swimming in Parkes shire for nearly 50 years has moved on to a new challenge.
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Rob Aston-Brien has ended a 26 year association with swimming in Parkes to take up a role at the foot of the mountains overseeing both Penrith and St Mary’s pools.
Rob followed in the footsteps of his father Herb who spent 20 years managing Parkes pool.
Rob’s father shared the responsibilities at the pool with Billy Cooper.
The Aston-Briens spent six years living at the pool in the caretakers house.
Rob’s dad encouraged him to swim from an early age which resulted in him competing at a state level.
While he said it was a tough decision to make, Rob is looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“It is a great opportunity for me to take over a larger responsibility with bigger facilities,” Rob said.
“It will provide great experience which could help me move to bigger centres in the future.
“The change will also afford Matt (son) greater opportunities with his swimming.
“He will be able to join stronger squads and really push himself against tougher opponents,” he said.
Rob’s new position is under Penrith Council and will see him manage both Ripples St Marys and Ripples Penrith.
“I thought it was time to give metro a bit of a go,” Rob said.
“While I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Parkes council, I felt the time was right for a new challenge.
“The people I have met over my time in the position with Parkes council have been fantastic.
“Being involved in such a community as Parkes has been very rewarding.”
Rob spent nearly 10 years as coach of the Parkes Sharks in which time they enjoyed a lot of success.
“My time coaching has been unbelievable,” Rob said.
“Over the years I have been privileged to coach some excellent talents with a number of swimmers going on to compete at a national level.
“This has been an amazing feat considering the town’s size.
“I have been blessed to have such great support from the community over my time in Parkes.
“From the swim club, the seniors aqua aerobics, Yvonne and Jim Hutton doing learn to swim, Flippers and my friends “the hippies” from Bindogundra, I have always felt great support.
“I need to thank everyone for that.
“You never know, maybe if council is looking for a tender in the future, we may return,” he said.
