The Henley and Grange Swimming Club was founded in 1912. We are the oldest competitive club in the state. Up until the early 1930’s the club swam in the sea, with events being swum alongside the Henley Jetty.

In 1935 the club moved into the Henley Community pool (a 55 yard salt water pool) on the foreshore at Henley. The fortunes of the club were varied, in the 1960’s and early 70’s the club was the leading force in swimming and water polo in South Australia.

In 1985 the Henley Pool closed and the Club was forced to move its operation to Thebarton High School Pool. This was an outdoor, unheated facility which we could only use for six months of the year.

In 1993 we secured a grant from the Federal Government to enclose and heat the pool. The end result of 3 years of very hard work was the emergence of Thebarton Aquatic Centre.

While we are proud of our history and tradition it is the future we are continually looking to. During the summer months we conduct regular time trials where swimmers compete for a number of Perpetual Trophies, many of which reflect our long history. These time trials are conducted along the lines of Competition Swimming and provide our young swimmers with an introduction into the sport of swimming in a friendly and non-threatening atmosphere. They also reward swimmers for "Personal Best" swim times.

Social functions are conducted throughout the year. Whether it be the regular BBQ’s after time trials or Kids Discos it’s all aimed at providing the swimmers with fun and exciting things to do.

Our club offers year round coaching. Squad training is graded to meet the needs of all levels, from those graduating from "Learn to Swim" through to National competition.

National Squad - This squad is aimed at swimmers who are training for National Age and Open levels. Approximately 7-10 sessions per week recommended.

State Squad - This squad is aimed at swimmers who are training for State Age, SAPSASA, Shell Age, and Open club carnivals. Approximately 5 sessions per week recommended.

Development Squad - This squad is aimed at swimmers who are training for SAPSASA, Swim SA meets, Shell Age and Club carnivals. Approximately 4 sessions per week recommended.

Junior Squad - Building a correct technique is an important role for these squads and considerable time is spent on developing technique and stamina. Approximately 4 sessions per week recommended.

"...a club of informality and friendly support for those who want to swim and keep fit in a social environment."

AUSSI is an acronym for the Australian Union of Senior Swimmers Incorporated. It is an Australian-wide association of adult swimming clubs whose members, men and women over 20 years of age, swim regularly to keep fit and have fun. The Masters group was established as part of Henley and Grange Club in 1993.

The Henley Beach Masters club has some 100 members ranging in age from early 20s to 60 onwards.

In addition to swimming, the Masters Club organises frequent social events. On the last Thursday of every month most members congregate after swimming for a drink and a bite to eat in the club rooms or at the local pub. There are also occasional weekends away organised by individual Club members and an annual Christmas party with awards and presents.

In line with the Masters philosophy of swimming for all, swimmers work to one of a variety of programs from beginners to advanced.

There is no emphasis on elite swimming, although all members are encouraged to improve their fitness and coaching is always available.

On each Saturday and Sunday on the summer months some Club members also swim from the Henley to Grange jetties.

The Club is also involved in competitive swimming with other clubs in the South Australian Branch of AUSSI Masters. In summer this involves longer, open water swimming competitions, and in winter, Inter-club events in indoor facilities.

Membership includes discount entry to Thebarton Aquatic Centre, coaching services, use of equipment, club newsletter and SA Branch newsletter.

Membership fees also cover basics such as insurance and national registration. Members also contribute a minimal fee at each swimming session for coaching and other costs. Prospective members are encouraged to attend for a couple of sessions before joining the club.

The Henley and Grange Swimming Club is proud to be associated with the ARKS squad, a dedicated and talented group of disabled swimmers. For more information on ARKS, please contact our reception.