About Gary Barclay OAM
Sport executive, organisational leader and author
Gary Barclay OAM brings more than 30 years of experience in sport management, business development and governance. His career spans club leadership, national event management, board service and high performance sport, combining strategic thinking with a strong record of delivery.
With a Master of Business in Sport Management from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and Law from Swinburne University of Technology, Gary brings both commercial understanding and extensive practical experience to his work.
About Gary Barclay OAM
Sport executive, organisational leader and author
Gary Barclay OAM brings more than 30 years of experience in sport management, business development and governance. His career spans club leadership, national event management, board service and high performance sport, combining strategic thinking with a strong record of delivery.
With a Master of Business in Sport Management from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and Law from Swinburne University of Technology, Gary brings both commercial understanding and extensive practical experience to his work.
Sport Management and Leadership
Gary’s approach to sport management combines clear strategic direction with an understanding of the people responsible for delivering it. He recognises the importance of aligning organisational ambitions with available resources, building effective partnerships and establishing clear responsibilities.
His leadership roles at Swimming Australia have encompassed Event Management, High Performance, Coaching and Participation, supporting initiatives that connect athlete development, workforce capability and the broader swimming community.
Having worked at club, state and national levels, Gary understands how organisational decisions affect athletes, coaches, staff, volunteers and families. This perspective informs his commitment to practical planning, purposeful collaboration and sustainable improvement.
Developing People and Organisations
Central to Gary’s leadership philosophy is the belief that capable, supported people are essential to organisational success.
He values clear communication, constructive discussion and shared accountability. His approach encourages people to contribute ideas, challenge assumptions and take ownership of their work within a clear strategic framework.
Gary places particular emphasis on identifying priorities, directing effort towards activities with meaningful impact and building the capability required for long-term success.
Author and Knowledge Sharing
Gary shares his swimming experiences through writing that makes practical knowledge accessible to a wider audience. His books include Swimming for Parents, Behind the Goggles and, as co-author, Nutrition for Swimmers.
His writing reflects his broader commitment to education and development: helping people understand their environment, make informed decisions and approach challenges with confidence.
This website brings together his publications, professional experience and perspectives on sport management, leadership and people development.
Recognition
In 2026, Gary was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to swimming.
The honour recognises his contribution to the sport and reflects a career built on working with others to strengthen swimming and support the people within it.
He is also a Life Member of Swimming Victoria, Nunawading Swimming Club and Carey Aquatic.
A Little About Me
GARY BARCLAY
Author | Sport Leader | Storyteller