Award-winners Robert and Margaret Fraser

Trainers awarded for commitment

Royal Life Saving WA’s inaugural training day culminated in the presentation of well-deserved awards to some of our longest-serving and most committed trainers.

After a full day of information, education and inspiration, awards were presented to Margaret and Robert Fraser, Samantha Harnett, Jane Green and Lee Duffy, as well as Kolbe Catholic College and Kalamunda Senior High School. 

First-aid trainers since 2004, Margaret and Robert Fraser play an important role in their hometown of Northam and beyond. Former paramedics, the husband-and-wife team deliver first-aid training across the region, and are appreciated for their personal, friendly and inclusive teaching style.

Robert realised the importance of knowing first aid around 35 years ago, when he witnessed a car accident. Unfortunately, the victim died, because no one at the scene was able to provide first aid. From that point on, Robert and his wife Margaret have been committed to sharing their knowledge and saving lives.

City of Bunbury Swim School Coordinator Samantha Harnett was awarded for her 12 years of aquatic training, while City of Wanneroo Swim School Coordinator Lee Duffy was awarded for his six years.

For Lee, being an aquatic trainer is a rewarding role. “It’s so rewarding when you help people overcome their challenges,” he says.

Samantha adds: "It's wonderful to help other people help other people."

Kolbe Catholic College and Kalamunda Senior High School were awarded for their years of service to Royal Life Saving WA. The schools' trainers deliver multiple lifesaving courses, with Kolbe's Kerry Donaldson saying this was something she'd like to see happening at school across the state.  

"Being near the beach, it's so important that our students are safe when they're swimming, surfing or boating," Kerry says. "We're not just teaching lifesaving skills, we're teaching life skills.

"You can't underestimate the importance of knowing these skills; you never know which one will end up saving a life."

An aquatic trainer for eight years, Jane Green was awarded for her work at Ballajura Aquatic Centre, where she enjoys the challenge of teaching people from CaLD backgrounds to swim. 

“Water can be fun, but it needs to be safe,” she says. “It’s so important that everyone who lives in WA is safe around water.”

We'd like to thank all of our community trainers for the difference they make in educating their community and saving lives. We'd love to have more people join our team! You can find out more at the link below.