Bobtrac say goodbye after 22 years at Emerald Aquatic Centre

After 22 years running the Emerald Aquatic Centre, lessee Bobtrac will hang up the goggles and dive into a new chapter next month.

The local family business, started by Tracy Spreadborough and Bob Greaves, took over the lease for the centre in 2002.

‘We re-tendered in 2005, and Dave Greaves also became a part of the business,’ Tracy said.

Tracy said Dave, who sadly passed last year, was an integral part of Bobtrac for almost a quarter of a century.

‘Anyone that has lived in Emerald would have seen his face somewhere around the pool,’ she said.

‘Whether this was greeting people, maintenance, or his very stern voice over the microphone, locals would know of Dave in some way.

‘Dave was President for the Central Queensland Swimming Associate for 9 years, as well as President of Emerald Seals for 6 years. He thrived off the Emerald Aquatic Centre. It was his home and happy place.’

In 2016, after Bob’s departure, Dave’s son Jim Greaves also jumped on board and joined the business.

Jim and Tracy both said a lot has changed over the years.

‘From the new 50 metre pool, splashpad, the learn to swim area and the water slides – it has been so amazing to watch the community get hyped up and come check it out,’ said Jim.

‘Retaining staff was probably our hardest challenge. The aquatic industry isn’t something you can just step into – you have to be trained in many specialised courses to become fully qualified and skilled. This is the hardest part in regional Queensland as the turnover happens. We have definitely relied on our little family to keep Bobtrac running.’

Tracy said each summer they could have up to 40 staff, and the roles often attracted school kids or young adults home from university for the holidays.

‘Both of my boys worked here at the Emerald Aquatic Centre when they were younger and loved it,’ she said.

For her, teaching kids to swim has been Tracy’s fondest memory.

‘I’ve taught children and now that they’re older I’m teaching their children,’ she said.

‘It’s been a wonderful experience.’

Bobtrac will continue to operate as a consulting company for commercial pools, providing repairs, services and expertise to the Central Highlands region and other shires in the area.

‘Other than that, definitely having a little rest for a while – then we’ll get back into it!’ said Tracy.

Mayor Moriarty dropped by the pool last month to thank Jim and Tracy (pictured).

‘From 2002 onwards, your passion and commitment has definitely made a valued contribution in our community and region,’ she said.

‘My family and I have many great memories of our time at the pool over the years, as I’m sure many people in our community do.

‘Your legacy will be cherished and we thank you for 22 years of dedicated service. All the best for your new endeavours.’

The Emerald Aquatic Centre is closed to the public now for the winter season, but will reopen under new management later this year.