MPBAA Media Centre

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Last Updated: 25 January 2018

People who live near a gym or a swimming pool are slimmer, research shows.

The more fitness facilities close to your home, and the further you are from the nearest takeaway, the healthier you are likely to be, experts say.

Those with at least six facilities close by had a 1.22cm smaller waist circumference, BMI of 0.57 points lower, and body fat percentage that was 0.81 per cent lower, on average.

London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine researchers looked at 400,000 UK adults aged 40 to 70 and say urbanisation is a key driver of obesity.

Here are two articles relating to this report:

Living Near Physical Activity Facilities Linked to Smaller Waistline, Lower BMI and Lower Body Fat Percentage

City Link To Obesity

SPASA Victoria Media Release referencing those two articles

Click HERE for more ideas and inspiration on why you should own a pool or spa

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Last Updated: 20 December 2017

If you're in the market to improve your health and lifestyle - as well as the look of your backyard - don't miss SPASA Victoria's Pool & Spa + Outdoor Living Expo, on at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from Friday 2 February to Sunday 4 February 2018.

The demand for pools, spas, landscape design and water features is growing, with many Australians turning what was once an uninspiring and neglected space into their own backyard oasis.

“A swimming pool or spa is now considered a ‘must have’ addition to any new or renovated home, as Australians are increasingly spending more time entertaining and socialising in the privacy of their own backyard,” said Brendan Watkins, CEO of SPASA. 

“The SPASA Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living is the biggest consumer event in the industry and is the place for prospective buyers to see, experience and compare a myriad of innovative ideas which can help transform their backyard into a unique outdoor haven,” he added.

Come along to get expert advice and the best deals on swimming pools, spas, swim spas, pool equipment, heaters, automated cleaning systems, accessories and landscaping ideas to help create your dream backyard.

With an extensive range of products, services and industry experts on hand, the time spent visiting the show could be the best investment you'll make all year. Compare the latest range of swim spas and portable spas and find out more about the therapeutic and health benefits of modern day spas. Compare all the options in pools from concrete to fibreglass, above ground and pre engineered pools.

A series of free seminars held across the three days of the show will cover a comprehensive range of topics. Visitors to the Expo will also have the opportunity to ask questions about their pool or spa plans and seek FREE professional advice from SPASA members.

Plus, go into the draw to win a FREE Swim Spa, courtesy of SPASA Member Just Spas.

Don't miss the SPASA Pool, Spa + Outdoor Living Expo. Buy discounted tickets HERE

SPASA POOL & SPA + OUTDOOR LIVING EXPO DETAILS:

Dates:            Friday 2 February – to Sunday 4 February 2018

Venue:           Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre
                       2 Clarendon St, Southbank

Times:           Friday 2 February 12pm - 8pm

                      Saturday 3 February 10am - 7pm

                      Sunday 4 February 10am - 6pm

Ticket prices:          

Ticket price online $17.50
Ticket price at the Door $19.50
Children under 16 FREE
Concession (Pensioners & Students) available at the door

Tickets: www.spasashow.com.au or at the door

Further information: www.spasashow.com.au

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Last Updated: 23 January 2018

While swimming is most often associated with Summer, it's a physical activity that anyone can participate in at any time of the year.

As soon as the weather gets hot, everyone starts looking around for the friend with the pool or swim spa. The next best bet - a local club or community pool. The cleaner and less crowded the better!

Swimming isn't just a fun way to cool off during the Summer. Swimming is one of the few activities that doesn't cost a lot of money or require equipment – and it holds no age or ability barrier.

CEO of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria (SPASA) Brendan Watkins says, “Swimming pools and spas are wonderful additions to the lifestyle of every Australian home. Exercise - and the social capital provided by a pool or spa - is immeasurable. With the current childhood obesity epidemic, the health and fitness benefits of pool and spa ownership are undeniable.”

A recent study that evidences the health and well-being benefits of swimming was released earlier this year. The study found that:

• Swimming is uniquely placed to support people throughout their entire life
• Swimming lowers the risk of early death by 28 per cent
• Swimming lessons help children to develop skills more quickly
• Swimming and aquatic activity is a safe, cost-effective and viable option for healthcare professionals to signpost patients

The unique benefits of water make it the perfect forum for people of all ages to exercise, particularly those with long term health conditions.

The report also found evidence that swimmers live longer and regular swimming helps older people stay mentally and physically fit. Importantly, it also showed that participation in swimming lessons can help children to develop physical, cognitive and social skills more quickly than those who do not have lessons.

The findings of this report have been used to raise awareness within the health profession that swimming is a safe, cost effective and viable option to signpost patients.

The full Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Swimming report and Swim England’s response can be accessed HERE

The reports remit was developed by the Swimming and Health Commission under the Chairmanship of Professor Ian Cumming. The Health Education England Chief Executive said, “The Swimming and Health Commission was established by Swim England to explore the evidence base for the health benefits of swimming. The resulting academic report is a ground-breaking collection of papers that identify striking and robust evidence for the significant improvements in health and quality of life that swimming produces.

HERE is an article featuring 25 compelling reasons to make swimming a part of your life

These are just some of those reasons:

See SPASA’s webpage on 'The Benefits of Pool & Spa Ownership’ HERE

Add Value to Your Property

Not only is swimming good for you and fun for the whole family, investing in a home pool or spa can add value to your property. Read articles HERE, HERE and HERE as to why owning a pool or spa makes smart financial sense.

So if you’re looking for a cheap, fun and healthy activity over Summer - or thinking about investing in a swimming pool or spa for your home - visit www.spasavic.com.au and remember – always choose a SPASA Member.

SPASA Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living

The SPASA Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living is on at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
2 - 4 February 2018.

Visit the SPASA Pool & Spa Expo and join the backyard revolution! An increasing number of people are installing pools and spas and renovating their outdoor living area for all year around entertainment. There is nothing more relaxing than lying back in a soothing hot spa in winter or swimming in your very own pool in the warmer months.

Get expert advice and the best deals on swimming pools, spas, swim spas, pool equipment, heaters, automated cleaning systems, accessories and landscaping ideas to help create your dream backyard.

With an extensive range of products, services and industry experts on hand, the time spent visiting the show could be the best investment you'll make all year. Compare the latest range of swim spas and portable spas and find out more about the therapeutic and health benefits of modern day spas. Compare all the options in pools from concrete to fibreglass, above ground and pre engineered pools.

A central feature within the Expo - the Outdoor Design Junction - is where high-end pool builders and landscape suppliers and designers will come together to present their capabilities to visitors focused on investing in their outdoor areas. 

The Outdoor Design Junction will broaden the scope of the SPASA Pool & Spa + Outdoor Living Expo and address consumer demand for a total solution between the back door and back fence.

Read more about the SPASA Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living HERE

SPASA Victoria Media Release - Swim For Your Life - 15 January 2018

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Last Updated: 21 November 2017

The Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria’s (SPASA) ‘Water Neutral Pool Program’ is making headlines around the world, with South Africa the latest country to request more information on this innovative water-saving program due to a major water crisis in Cape Town.

The whole of South Africa’s Western Cape Region is experiencing severe drought conditions, which are having a negative impact on the swimming pool industry - so much so that there is currently a proposal from the City of Cape Town council to put an indefinite ban on the construction and installation of all new swimming pools.

In late 2016, the USA’s Californian Pool Association also requested information on SPASA’s ‘Water Neutral Pool Program’ and have since been provided with the Water Neutral Pool Program kit.

Earlier this year, Annalisa Dall'Oca, the editor of Italian pool and spa magazine ‘Piscine Oggi’ and organiser of the international exhibition ‘Forum Piscine’ www.forumpiscine.it/en in Bologna, Italy made contact to arrange an interview with SPASA CEO Brendan Watkins.

Annalisa wanted to explain to readers of ‘Piscine Oggi’ (meaning ‘Pool Today’) how the ‘Water Neutral Pool Program’ works, its efficiency and the savings involved regarding both energy use and the reduced chemicals and water required under this Program.

Italians are particularly interested in the Australian experience as a pioneer of this environmentally friendly type of pool, as well as other solutions that reduce water consumption or promote water recovery.

A ‘Water Neutral Pool Program’ presentation and workshop are planned for the ‘Forum Piscine’ exhibition in 2018.

The interview, entitled ‘The Australian Case’, can be found on pages 36 and 37 of Italian pool and spa magazine ‘Piscine Oggi’:

Piscine Oggi - The Australian Case - English translation

A quick online translation was used for the English version but the original version in Italian can be read here:

Piscine Oggi – The Australian Case – Italian version

Award-winning SPASA Victoria Pool Builder Members ‘Summertime Pools’ have recently come up with a clever advertising campaign endorsing the benefits of the ‘Water Neutral Pools Program’ HERE

To find out more about SPASA’s fantastic ‘Water Neutral Pool Program’ please see HERE

SPASA Victoria Media Release - SPASA Victoria's Water Neutral Pool Program Goes Global - 20 November 2017

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Last Updated: 17 November 2020

The Victorian Building Authority has released its top seven warning signs of an unregistered builder.

Building a home, renovating your property or installing a swimming pool or spa will likely be one of the biggest investments a home owner will ever make. 

To protect themselves from rogue practitioners, the VBA urges home owners to do their research and develop good communication lines with their builder.

VBA Acting Chief Executive Officer Murray Smith said it was also important to understand the role of the building surveyor and the VBA before starting the construction process. 

“It is only through your relationship with your builder or building surveyor that you will fully understand how your project is going,” Mr. Smith said. 

“Seek regular updates, take photographs and ensure any variations to plans are agreed in writing by you and the practitioner.” 

The VBA’s top 7 warning signs of an unregistered builder

• No results are found when you type the builder’s name into the VBA’s online ‘Find a Practitioner’ tool
• The builder does not ask you to enter into a written contract before the project starts
• They ask for too much money up-front or at each set payment stage. By law in Victoria, a deposit can be no more than five per cent of the total project cost (projects over $20,000)
• They are not prepared to tell you about or show you what homes they have recently built
• They cannot or will not show you their VBA ID card
• The builder is not a member of an industry body
• You are not given a copy of the builder’s domestic building insurance policy or a certificate of currency covering your property before construction

Always Choose a SPASA Member!

SPASA Members are industry professionals and are at the forefront of the industry in regards to their experience, professionalism and reputation.

Bound by the Association’s strict Code of Ethics, all SPASA members have demonstrated a history of successful, ethical trading and knowledge appropriate to their membership category.

Look for the SPASA member logo to ensure you are dealing with an industry professional.

The first questions you should always ask are:

“Are You A Registered Building Practitioner?”
“Are you a SPASA Pool Builder Member?”
“Do you use a SPASA Pool Construction Contract?”

You can Find a SPASA Member HERE

For more information visit the SPASA Victoria website

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Last Updated: 20 September 2017

Former Olympian Matt Welsh OAM has joined Kidsafe Australia to help save lives over summer at the launch of their ‘Saving Lives’ Pool Party Campaign.

The Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria (SPASA) is delighted to continue to collaborate with Kidsafe on this important campaign and this year for the first time has financially committed to help fund this vital annual safety check program.

Kidsafe’s national ‘Save the Date’ campaign calls on all pool and spa owners to sign up to Kidsafe’s ‘Pool Party’ event on Facebook and pledge to check the safety of their pool or spa barrier when they change their clocks at the beginning of daylight saving time on Sunday October 1.

SPASA Victoria was excited to see this initiative launched on 19th September, as an important follow-on to many years of advocacy work done on pool and spa safety in Victoria. Visit SPASA’s pool and spa safety advocacy page here www.spasavic.com.au/pool-spa-safety-campaign.

Between 2004 and 2015, Victoria lost 25 children in backyard pool drowning fatalities. SPASA Victoria is strongly of the view that inspections of pool and spa barriers should be mandatory in Victoria.

SPASA Victoria CEO Brendan Watkins said, “Pool and spa barrier inspections are currently mandatory in only three states - NSW, QLD and WA. Since the introduction of mandatory inspections in WA in 1992, there has been an 80% reduction in the rate of toddler drownings.”

While safety barriers can be effective in reducing the risk of drowning incidents, evidence suggests that a large number of drowning deaths are the result of barriers that are faulty, or non-compliant with Australian standards.

“Common faults or non-compliance issues include gates and doors that are no longer self-closing or latching, gates that are propped open and climbable objects near the barrier,” said Kidsafe Ambassador Mr Welsh. “There is no better use of 15 minutes of your time than checking the safety of your pool barrier in preparation for the warm summer months ahead. By doing so, you could save a life.”

This October 1st, take 15 minutes to check the safety of your pool barrier – because Safe Barriers Save Lives.

For further information on the campaign, please visit kidsafevic.com.au and to find out more about pool and spa barrier regulations visit
www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumer-resources/building/pages/swimming-pools

Read SPASA Victoria's Media Release HERE

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Key messages:

• Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under 5 in Australia, with backyard pools being the most common location for drowning incidents to occur
• 20 seconds is all it takes for a toddler to drown
• Simply having a pool/spa barrier in place isn’t enough on its own to keep children safe. A large number of swimming pool drowning incidents are a result of faulty or non-compliant pool/spa barriers
• Regular maintenance is necessary. It takes approximately 15 minutes to check your barrier thoroughly using Life Saving Victoria’s Home Pool Safety Assessment
• Active adult supervision is the key to keeping children safe around water
• Need help? Visit kidsafevic.com.au to use the free Home Pool Safety Assessment

Common issues with pool fences include:

• Gates and doors that don’t self-latch or self-close
• Climbable objects near the barrier e.g. pot plants, chairs, pool pumps near the pool fencing which could allow a child to climb over the fence
• Excess space under the fence, and;
• Misuse (e.g. propping the pool gate open)

Action

All you need to complete the audit is your phone/tablet, or a print out of the online pool barrier questions and a tape measure