Empowering the Next Generation in Water Safety

Mounties and Triglav are supporting the Royal Life Saving Society NSW (RLSNSW) with its mission to build the next generation of community lifesavers. Supporting its Junior Lifesavers, Primary and Preschool Water Safety Projects across the Fairfield and Liverpool region, the organisation is dedicated to helping all Australians enjoy the water safely through drowning prevention leadership, education and action.

RLSNSW Western Sydney Drowning Report identified that an alarming 196 people lost their life to drowning in Western Sydney between 2011 and 2021. 82% of these drownings were male and 57% were people born overseas. More than one fifth of drowning deaths occurred whilst swimming and recreating.

As part of 2023 ClubGRANTS, Triglav has supported the Society with a grant to teach vital lifesaving and survival skills to 50 youth aged 8 to 12 in Fairfield via the Junior Lifesavers to prepare them for a lifetime of safe aquatic activity.

The RLSNSW Junior Lifesavers program offers an alternate participation pathway for an age group who typically drops out of aquatic activity after learn to swim. Through combining the skills of swimming, rescue, accident prevention and emergency care, this program offers a non-competitive and fun aquatic pathway for youth that encourages fitness, teamwork and social skills, while building vital lifesaving and survival skills.

"The aim is to keep children recreating in the water for longer to support continued development of aquatic skills, promote physical activity, and build vital lifesaving skills and water safety knowledge," explained Louise Smalley, Health Promotion Manager from RLSNSW.

"In partnership with Fairfield City Leisure Centres these grants will allow us to conduct fully funded Junior Lifesavers programs during the 2024 school holidays. Youth will have the opportunity to develop lifesaving skills and connect with others in a fun and supportive environment," added Louise.

In addition to this program, Mounties has pledged more than $12,000 to see the RLSNSW Preschool Water Safety Project implemented in Fairfield and Liverpool and more than $7,000 to undertake the Primary Water Safety Project in Liverpool.

"Our Preschool and Primary Water Safety Projects see 2,500 of local children learn about water safety that is both fun and educational. Face to face and interactive water safety presentations are undertaken at local preschools and primary schools teaching children important rules to help them stay safe around water," continued Louise.

To ensure cultural relevance of messaging for the diverse Western Sydney community, a RLSNSW multicultural coordinator is dedicated to crafting content that is both culturally appropriate and easily understandable.

The heart of our engagement lies in a thoughtfully designed educational program. Trained RLSNSW Community Educators will conduct water safety presentations, incorporating storytelling, songs, visual learning, and practical activities.

With more than $25,000 pledged to the RLSNSW, Mounties Group is proud to support these important causes that play a part in prevention.

"As a water-loving nation, Mounties Group is committed to supporting RLSNSW's aim to bring a love of swimming and water safety education to more people in the community, especially those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate.

"These three programs are vital to fostering a culture of safety and education within our community. The initiatives empower parents, engage young children and instil lifelong water safety habits for all," added Mounties Group President, John Dean.

 

For more information on RLSNSW visit www.drowningprevention.org.au.