OUR HISTORY
Mrs Beth Meade QSM, founder of Comet Swimming Club.
OUR HISTORY
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Mrs Beth Meade QSM, founder of Comet Swimming Club.
In 2025, Comet Swimming launched their bold new strategic plan, shaped by the voices and aspirations of whanau, tamariki, and the wider community. This plan sets an inspiring direction for the future, ensuring Comet continues to grow as a place where confidence, safety, and a love for the water flourish.
Kiwa Pools opened in 2023, providing our community with a world-class aquatic facility right here in Tairawhiti. Kiwa Pools has quickly become a valued resource, offering a welcoming space for whanau, schools, and local clubs to connect, learn, and thrive in the water.
Glenn Hamblyn starts as Head Coach in September. Moving his family to Gisborne from Auckland. He is assisted by Anneleen Van Damme who started in March 2020.
Greg Meade retires after 23yrs as Head Coach and Manager of the Club plus 18yrs as a volunteer Coach. Greg first started volunteering for Comet in 1978. Rochelle Somerton takes over from Greg as Manager of the Club.
Andrew Bull (Founder Beth Meade’s Grandson) starts as Assistant Coach to Greg whilst Rochelle goes on maternity leave. When Rochelle returns she moves into Stroke Development and Learn to Swim.
Christmas Holiday Programme is the start of Comets Learn to Swim programme out of Elgin School Swimming Pool. This pool was used as the facility was more suitable for a Learn to Swim Programme as there was no suitable option available from Council.
Greg Meade (Founder Beth Meade’s son) starts as full-time squad coach at the Olympic Pools. Spa and therapy pools are installed at the Olympic Pool Complex. Comet starts Learn to Swim lessons in the Therapy Pool. Size and depth allows 2 swimmers at a time for safe practice. Spa and therapy pools are installed. Comet starts Learn to Swim lessons in the Therapy Pool. Size and depth allows 2 swimmers at a time for safe practice.
Comet partners with Council to cover the 50m pool, Comet undertakes a major component of required fund raising and support for this project.
The Gisborne Olympic Pool Complex opens; Comet were amongst the first users, Beth continuing to be a driving force.
Beth called a meeting with Gisborne District Council (Council) to discuss the possibility of a new swimming complex.