By Samantha Wantling
After an impressive 24 years of unwavering service to the Stanthorpe community, Michael and Gail Smail have officially retired from their roles as lessees of the Stanthorpe Pool.
The impact of their dedication reached far and wide, from guiding countless children through Mums ’n Bubs sessions to fostering talent in learn-to-swim programs, and squads, and achieving representation at regional, state, and national levels – all within the pool’s limited six-month operating window.
Recognising the need to honour this extraordinary couple, Stanthorpe Swimming Club president Amy Hill and her committee embarked on a mission to find the perfect tribute.
After careful consideration, they decided on a special chair positioned beside the pool, providing spectators and swimmers with a tranquil space to rest, reflect, and observe the pool activities.
Local woodturner Tom Hoffman played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life, and the project now stands proudly by the poolside.
Over 60 family members, friends, and colleagues of Michael and Gail gathered to express gratitude for their remarkable 23-year tenure at the helm of the pool. The couple took their seats on the newly dedicated chair, surrounded by heartfelt thanks and admiration.
Shannon Ambruster, a friend and life member of the Stanthorpe Swimming Club, lauded the Smails.
“They have both supported swimming and the development of swimming for which we are extremely grateful.“
She emphasised Gail’s pivotal role in swimmers’ successes and acknowledged Michael’s commitment to ensuring the pool’s smooth operation, from early morning openings, chasing away ducks and managing pool etiquette when morning lap swimmers tried to throw in a sneaky single lane swim.
While Michael and Gail undoubtedly sacrificed much for their love of the pool and community, Mayor Vic Pennisi extended his heartfelt thanks, acknowledging them as integral members of the community fabric. He asserted that the council, spanning five-year terms, owed the duo a considerable debt of gratitude.
Expressing his appreciation for the newly dedicated chair, Michael Smail addressed the gathering, saying, “We never set out to be here for 24 years, but it just kind of grew on us.“ He pledged to frequent the pool often and make use of the special chair.
Gail, continuing her support for junior squad swimmers aiming to qualify for state meets, now has the perfect vantage point to witness the rise of future swimming superstars.
The chair stands as a lasting symbol of gratitude for the Smails’ enduring legacy in the Stanthorpe community.
