Goldfields kids Have a Go at lifesaving

Children in the Goldfields recently had the chance to soak up a range of aquatic activities as part of Royal Life Saving WA’s free ‘Have a Go Day’.

The event was run in collaboration with Water Polo WA and Synchronised Swimming, with our accredited trainers facilitating the pool lifesaving events. Children enjoyed taking part in activities including the rescue tube tow, line throw relay and manikin carry, all intended to present students with an idea of the competitive side to the sport. Hosted at the Goldfields Oasis Recreation Centre, the kids soaked up the lifesaving skills in the encouraging environment, finishing the day off with a sausage sizzle amongst their peers. 

The latest WA Drowning Report highlights the fact that 30% of the state’s drowning deaths happen outside the metro area, with people almost twice as likely to drown in regional and remote areas of WA. Royal Life Saving Senior Manager Swimming and Water Safety Education, Trent Hotchkin, says the fact that people in regional and remote areas of our state are at such high risk of drowning is concerning.

“It highlights the need for improved access to appropriate lifesaving, swimming and water safety programs to ensure they have the knowledge and skills needed to participate safely in the unique aquatic environments that exist in these areas. Participating in these pool lifesaving events can develop children’s skills so they can become the future lifesavers of the community.” 

Royal Life Saving has continued to deliver these programs to remote communities as a preventative measure for future drownings. Mr Hotchkin says it’s crucial that we get children engaged in swimming and water safety programs.

“Learning to Swim and Survive is a vital life skill that all Western Australian children need to safely participate on, in and around water. Building swimming and water safety skills in young children is the single most important investment we can make as a community to prevent drowning.” 

The Goldfields ‘Have a Go Day’ was supported by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and Principal Community Partner BHP.

To learn more about pool lifesaving and how you can get involved, visit the link below.