Infant aquatic lessons a huge hit at Fitzroy Crossing remote pool

24 of Fitzroy Crossing’s youngest residents recently enjoyed their first swimming lesson as part of a six-week Swim and Survive and Infant Aquatics program at the Fitzroy Crossing pool.

The pool, which is part of Royal Life Saving WA’s Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pools Project, is managed by husband and wife team Trevor and Adele Caporn. Adele also manages swimming lessons at the facility and is being assisted this term by swimming instructor Zoe, who has travelled to the remote community as an additional instructor.

The special six-week infant/toddler program commenced on Saturday 24th October and “had a fantastic turnout,” said Trevor. “It was a great opportunity to do Saturday community lessons whilst an additional instructor was in town. Adele and Zoe did a fantastic job.” 

There were 10 babies, 13 toddlers and a 5-year-old participating in the lessons, with Adele and Zoe splitting the group into three lessons of half an hour each. Trevor said they also “had 35 mums and dads turn up to help and watch. All the parents were very happy to have this opportunity to come in on a Saturday morning, as they don’t get the chance during the week as they’re all working.”

The lessons will continue for the next six weeks, and the children will all receive Royal Life Saving Swim and Survive certificates when the program is completed.

Infant Aquatics is a Royal Life Saving program specially designed for babies 0-2 years old and is taught with the parent or carer in the water. The program uses songs, games and activities to ensure children experience a variety of skills including entries, floating, breathing and movement.