For generations of Tarragindi families, Friday nights at Wellers Hill State School have meant more than swimming races, with the Water Ratz club bringing children and parents together through a community tradition dating back to 1964.
Read: From Wellers Hill Water Ratz to Glasgow: Zac Stubblety-Cook Named in Australian Team
The club has published its 2026–27 season program, continuing a swimming tradition that welcomes children of different ages and abilities. Its regular Friday-night activities combine racing, opportunities to improve personal times and a shared meal around the pool.
Unlike school-only sporting programs, the Water Ratz welcomes children from Prep to Year 12 regardless of which school they attend. The club operates through the Wellers Hill State School Parents and Citizens Association, with activities scheduled during Terms 4 and 1.
A place for beginners and experienced swimmers
One of the club’s distinguishing features is its approach to children who are still learning to swim independently.
Younger or less confident participants can enter supported half-lap events, where a senior swimmer helps them complete the distance. These untimed swims give children an introduction to club nights without requiring them to race a full lap.
More experienced swimmers can enter timed events over 25, 50 and 100 metres, with the program changing each week. The emphasis includes improving individual times rather than simply finishing ahead of other competitors.
According to the club’s published arrangements, gates open at 5:45 p.m., followed by warm-ups from 6:00 p.m. Half-lap events begin at 6:15 p.m., with the main racing program scheduled from 6:30 p.m.
Friday nights bring families together
The swimming is only part of the Water Ratz tradition. A barbecue and canteen provide dinner and refreshments, allowing families to spend time together while children participate in their events.
The club relies on parents and community volunteers to help organise activities, including timekeeping and canteen duties. Wellers Hill State School’s parent handbook identifies family involvement as an important part of maintaining the Friday-night program.
For families new to Tarragindi, the gatherings offer an opportunity to meet other parents while children develop swimming skills and friendships outside the classroom.
A local club with a long history
The Wellers Hill Amateur Swimming Club dates back to 1964, according to both the school’s official information and the Water Ratz website.
Over more than six decades, its activities have extended beyond weekly club nights to include championships and interclub competitions. The club’s regular season runs from Term 4 into Term 1, with championships held towards the end of the season.
Water Ratz also has a connection to Australian swimming history. Olympic gold medallist Zac Stubblety-Cook began his swimming journey at the Tarragindi club before progressing to international competition.
While his achievements have brought attention to the club, its regular program continues to cater for children across a broad range of abilities.
How local families can participate
Water Ratz offers families an opportunity to try one club night before paying the full season registration fee for timed swimming events.
Its published information lists a season fee of $80 for swimmers entering 25, 50 and 100-metre races, with sibling discounts available. Half-lap swimmers do not pay a season registration fee, although the usual $2 family gate entry applies.
Read: Emily Drummond Swimming Helps Local Families Access Affordable Lessons
Families can check the 2026–27 season program, registration requirements and weekly race nominations through the official Water Ratz website.
For Tarragindi, the club remains an example of how a school pool, dedicated volunteers and a familiar Friday-night gathering can support community sport across generations.
Published 31-Oct-2026
