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Alastair Johnson

Head Coach

Alastair brings a wealth of coaching and leadership experience to the pool deck. Having held Head Coach positions in England, Scotland, and New Zealand, alongside national leadership roles with Scottish Swimming and Swimming New Zealand, he offers insight across the full swimming pathway - from learn-to-swim and junior squads through to club and high-performance environments.

Currently serving as Squad Lead for Swimming Waikato, Alastair has guided athletes on the international stage as both coach and team leader at World Championships, Commonwealth Games, Junior Pan Pacs, Queensland Championships, and numerous international camps and tours.

At the heart of his work is a passion for building strong, sustainable clubs founded on synergy with swim schools, athlete skill development, and personal growth. His philosophy centers on effort, resilience, and progression, and his commitment to supporting swimmers of every age and stage remains the cornerstone of his leadership and coaching.

Savanna Bourke

Development Coach

Savanna is a passionate and approachable coach who brings fresh energy to the pool deck.

With a background in competitive swimming and a strong connection to the club, she supports junior squads with a focus on technique, pacing, and building swimmer confidence.

Savanna is known for her clear communication, calm presence, and ability to connect with younger athletes. Her sessions are structured but encouraging - helping swimmers feel supported, challenged, and proud of their progress.

Max Downey

Coach

Max has been part of St. Peter’s Swimming Club for more than 13 years, bringing both experience and a healthy dose of humour to the pool deck. As the coach of the mighty Avengers squad, he fully embraces his unofficial title of “Iron Man,” guiding swimmers with a mix of technical skill, encouragement, and fun.

Across his time with the club, Max has achieved multiple national‑level successes and remains committed to helping young athletes grow through the early stages of their swimming careers. He’s passionate about making a positive impact, both in the water and in the confidence his swimmers carry with them.

And despite the superhero nickname, Max insists he’s really just a big nerd at heart. He’s always up for a chat about… well, almost anything.

Bree Scott

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Bree was born and raised on a large sheep and beef farm on the west coast, where hard work, resilience, and teamwork were part of everyday life. She recently completed postgraduate study in advanced rehabilitation and strength and conditioning, following her Bachelor of Sport & Exercise Science in 2024.

She has worked with athletes across rugby, cricket, BMX, athletics, triathlon, motocross, netball, and swimming, supporting them in strength development, movement quality, injury prevention, and overall performance. As an athlete herself, Bree has competed in three Ironman 70.3 events and has a strong background in competitive long‑distance running, giving her a practical understanding of the commitment and mindset required to train well.

Bree is passionate about helping young athletes build confidence, move well, and enjoy the process of training. Her coaching approach focuses on good movement, smart programming, and creating an environment where athletes feel capable and supported.

As part of the coaching team at St Peter’s Swimming Club, she looks forward to helping swimmers develop strength, mobility, and resilience both in and out of the water.

President
Kylie Johnstone

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Secretary
Cassie Zhang

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Treasurer
Katrina Churstain

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Brand & Communication
Cindy Jacobs

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Recorder
Jacob Heerikhuisen

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Events
Sivajah Somasundaram

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Events
Jessie Chen

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Fundraising & Sponsorship
Jason Howarth

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General
Briony Nash

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