AFTER more than three decades of watching over swimmers, mentoring young athletes and serving the Durban North community, Dean Oswell has hung up his rescue tube for the last time.

Oswell recently retired as chief supervisor at Durban North Pool, bringing to a close a remarkable 37-year career in municipal aquatics, including 25 years as a permanent lifeguard and supervisor.

While he has overseen countless busy summer days and ensured the safety of thousands of swimmers, it is the people whose lives he has helped shape that stand out as his greatest memories.

“One of the highlights has been the development and outreach programmes. To see people progress, with some even going on to earn Springbok colours, has been incredibly rewarding. Many have come back over the years to tell me about their achievements, and that’s something I’ll always treasure,” said Oswell.

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He also credits the dedicated team he worked alongside throughout his career.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with competent, hardworking staff who always put the community first.”

Over the years, Oswell has watched the Durban North Pool evolve alongside the community it serves.
“The pool is far busier during peak seasons than it used to be, and we’ve seen a much more diverse group of people using the facility. It’s also no longer about just swimming. More people are taking part in a variety of water sports, which has been wonderful to see.”

Although lifeguarding has always been centred on public safety, Oswell said the role has changed considerably.

“As a supervisor, there’s far more administration than there used to be. The biggest challenge has been balancing those responsibilities while remaining focused on what matters most – keeping swimmers safe, especially when the pool is at its busiest.”

His passion for the job, however, never faded.
“For me, it’s always been about fulfilling my potential, helping people where I can and uplifting others. You have to keep adapting, overcome challenges and continue growing.”

One of the biggest influences in his life was his father, who was also a lifeguard and remains physically active.

Calm beyond duty
“I grew up watching him compete in lifesaving events at North Beach. Being around him and spending time at the beach was my happy place. He inspired me to get involved in the sport and showed me the importance of balance in life.”

Among his proudest personal achievements was finishing in the top 20 of a gruelling Lifeguard Endurance Race, competing against some of the country’s best beach lifeguards despite spending most of his career as a pool lifeguard.

Yet it is the quieter moments that have left the deepest impression.

Oswell recalls working with autistic children and adults who found comfort and calm in the water.

“The pool became a therapeutic space for many of them. Some would come every day and spend hours in the water. It was special knowing the facility could provide that sense of peace and make such a positive difference in their lives.”

Although retirement marks the end of his full-time career, Oswell hopes it will not be the end of his involvement with the pool.

“I hope the programmes continue to grow. I’d still like to be involved in some way and help more people make the most of what our public pools have to offer.”

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