Mr John Carew

One of Australia’s foremost distance swimming coaches best known as the man behind the all-conquering Kieren Perkins, 1500m freestyle world record holder and gold medalist at the 1992 and ’96 Olympic Games.

John Carew was a member of the coaching staff of the Australian swimming team from 1989-2000, including the 1992, 96,2000 Olympics, the 1994-98 Commonwealth Games, two world championships and four Pan Pacific championships.

He was recognised by the World Swimming Coaches Association as Coach of the Quadrennium for 1992-96. Renowned for his scientific approach and innovative training programs that left an indelible mark on his sport, he began as a swimming instructor at Surfers Paradise Surf Lifesaving Club in the early 1950’s and coached at various Brisbane pools before establishing The John Carew Swim School at Indooroopilly in the late 1970s.

Inducted to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2008, he died shortly after aged 81. In a moving tribute, Perkins said of his life-time mentor: "Everything I achieved I owe to Mr Carew. He not only made me the swimmer I was but also the man I am today. He was a wonderful influence on my career and my life."