Wed Sep 18 04:05:34 UTC 2024: ## Former Olympian Finds New Purpose in Reviving Remote Pools

**Alice Springs, NT** – Kurt Herzog, a former Australian Olympian swimmer, has traded the competitive pool for a life of community service in the Northern Territory. After a career that saw him compete alongside swimming legend Grant Hackett, Herzog decided to turn his passion for water to helping Indigenous communities.

Herzog’s journey began with a chance encounter with a friend who suggested volunteering in remote areas. This sparked a realization that, despite representing Australia, he hadn’t experienced much of his own country. In 2018, he answered a call for a pool manager in Utju, a community located two-and-a-half hours west of Alice Springs.

“I just went on Google, typed in ‘volunteering in Aboriginal communities’, and found this organisation called Red Dust,” Herzog said. “They gave me a call and said they were sending me to Utju.”

Herzog’s initial experience in Utju opened his eyes to the importance of access to swimming facilities in remote areas. He witnessed firsthand the joy and benefit these pools provided to the community.

“A lot of people don’t realise that these pools are the only pool available in a community—it’s either that or it’s the tap or the hose in your backyard,” he explained.

Herzog’s dedication to the cause led him to partner with the MacDonnell Regional Council and the YMCA Northern Territory to create the Remote Pools Project. This initiative aims to keep these vital community resources open and accessible.

“The pools are free of charge, so there are no barriers to people coming in to access the benefits… and it’s bloody hot,” Herzog added.

The project has seen significant success, with nearly 20 locals now working on a rotating roster at the pool in Ltyentye Apurte. Herzog emphasizes that the program not only provides essential facilities but also creates opportunities for employment and purpose.

“I’ve learnt so much spending time in these communities, but I’ve still got so much to learn, and I try to remind myself of that as much as possible,” Herzog concluded.

Herzog’s story highlights the impact a single individual can have on a community by leveraging their skills and passion. His journey shows that purpose can be found beyond the traditional path of professional sports, leaving a lasting legacy of health and wellbeing in remote communities.

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