Still Soaring
When Ben and Judith Van Der Haar began Albatross Pools together in 1969, they hoped – but could not know – the company would become a Melbourne institution. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019, the company has never lost sight of its three founding principles: use quality products, truly listen to customers, and offer value for money.
Albatross Pools had humble beginnings, as do many stellar companies, starting with a display pool in the family backyard in Warrandyte. Today, Albatross Pools can proudly claim nearly 150 SPASA awards, both state and national, and has serviced approximately 16,000 satisfied customers, some of whom grew up playing in a family pool by Albatross Pools and returned to the company to build one for their own family. These numbers are expected only to grow in years to come.
Ben and Judith’s eldest son, Michael, is currently at the helm of Albatross Pools, and the third generation of the Van Der Haar family is preparing to take the reins. Michael is mentoring his daughter and sonin- law, Peita and Justin Otterbach, who plan to carry the company into the future. The team’s current focus is staying abreast of cutting-edge products and manufacturing techniques, national and international distribution; and continuing to provide high-quality customised pool solutions to the community.
Michael, Peita and Justin extend their gratitude to the company’s industry partners; its passionate, knowledgeable and loyal team, some of who have been with Albatross Pools for more than 30 years; and their customers, past and present.
You can visit the friendly and experienced team at the two display centres in Dandenong and Warrandyte. The first pool still on display – a nod to the commitment and family values that have seen the company through to today, as well as the strength and durability of the pre-engineered Albatross Pools system.