GREAT Lakes Aquatic and Leisure Centre is on track to defend its 2007 swim school prize, and it could pick up an individual gong at next month’s State awards.

The centre holds the NSW Small Swim School title for pools with fewer than 2000 pupils, and has been nominated in the same category this year.

Swimming instructor Barbara Muxlow has also been nominated in the General Swimming Teacher category. Just being in the running is a highlight of a long career, she said.

“I’ve taught swimming almost 27 years.

“I started on the south coast, then Taree and Bulahdelah, and I’ve taught at Forster and Tuncurry since 1984.”

Judges will put Barbara under the microscope to see how well she meets criteria including communication, behaviour management, leadership and attitude.

The NSW AustSwim awards will be announced on September 25, at a Sydney ceremony emceed by Athens Olympic gold medallist Brooke Hanson.