Swimming Victoria is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Margaret Smith. SV and the wider swimming community extends its sincere condolences to Janice and Judith Smith and family. Margaret’s contribution to Victorian swimming was outstanding. She was awarded Life Membership of Swimming Victoria in 2009 for her continuous service to Victorian swimming as a club and district administrator and as a technical official.
She began officiating in 1959, firstly as a member of Shepparton Swimming Club and then the Yallourn and Frankston Peninsula Swimming Clubs. She was also awarded Life Membership of Frankston Peninsula and Metro South District Swimming Association.
Margaret was a regular attendee at State Championships over the years and represented Victoria as an official at a national level from 1974. She was extremely proud when her family, including husband Max, son Trevor and daughters Janice and Judith, started this national journey with her. Her favorite position was as a marshall where she had close contact with the swimmers, many of whom remember her fondly.
She first represented Australia as an official at the 1982 Commonwealth Games and went on to officiate at many international meets including Olympics, Paralympics, World Championships, Oceania and Pan Pacific Championships.
Margaret was known for the dedication and care she showed to swimmers and her fellow officials. We thank Margaret for her many years of contribution to swimming in Victoria.
Vale Margaret Smith. May she rest in peace.
