Community flocks to Yandeyarra pool

The Yandeyarra community pool has been a hive of activity this summer, with Pool Manager Bronwyn Ray hosting several events and activities for the local community.

Yandeyarra, a remote Aboriginal community in the Pilbara, is home to around 400 people and is part of Royal Life Saving WA’s Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pool project. The pool is supported by the Department of Communities and Principal Community Partner BHP.

Established in 1999, the Remote Pools project works in consultation with eight remote communities across WA, providing a Pool Manager to deliver swimming and water safety programs for nine months of the year.

This season has seen a boost of community involvement, with local teachers signing up to complete their Bronze Medallion.

“I delivered the training to the teachers, and they can now take the kids out on country to the local water holes and creeks,” said Pool Manager, Bronwyn Ray.

Considered the pinnacle of lifesaving awards, the Bronze Medallion qualification means Yandeyarra teachers can now supervise activities around water, especially important given the community is located on the banks of the Yule River, which is known to flood during Wet Season.

As well as regular Swim and Survive lessons, the Yandeyarra pool has also hosted birthday parties, a Baby and Toddler Day and community barbecues.

“These events bring the community together which is very important for the social and emotional wellbeing of the whole community,” said Bronwyn.

“The pool has been a hive of activity so far this season and doesn’t look like it's slowing down which is fantastic to see.”

Learn more about the benefits of the Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pool project at the link below.