Swim lessons resume

Sunshine Leisure Centre. Pic of mum Kelly Hawkridge and her kids Ava (8) and Billy (5). Photo by Damjan Janevski. 225167_02

Tara Murray

Swimming lessons are back on the agenda in Brimbank, with places for up to 1000 new students available in term one at Brimbank leisure centres.

The new ‘Swim and Survive’ program offers lessons for young and old, with places now available for babies from three months of age through to adults at the Sunshine and St Albans pools.

Lessons go for 30 minutes, with sessions available on weekends, as well as after school and during the day for younger children.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic highlighted the importance of swimming lessons for all ages, especially children.

“Many people have missed out on swim lessons due to COVID-19,” Cr Rasic said.

“With great capacity at Brimbank leisure centres, the new year is an ideal time to get back into swimming lessons.

“While it’s important to always observe children in water, teaching them how to be safe around the water is a vital skill.

“The revitalised 2021 Swim and Survive program is the first to be mapped on the new National swimming and water safety framework.

“These changes ensure the curriculum and skill progression map provide the best outcomes for Brimbank children and families.”

It is estimated 145,000 children per week missed out on swimming lessons due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Term one lessons kick off at Sunshine Leisure Centre on February 1. The centre is open Monday to Friday, from 6am–9pm, and 8am–5pm on weekends.

For more information visit: leisurecentres.brimbank.vic.gov.au/aquatics/swimming-lessons or email swimschool@brimbank.vic.gov.au.