11 June 2025

Local teen leading Leinster’s aquatic future

When Blake Forrest joined the pilot Talent Pool program in Leinster at the start of Year 11, he had no idea he would become the first person in his community to complete the full training pathway.

Since 2023, 18-year-old Blake has obtained his Bronze Medallion, completed First Aid and Lifeguard training, and graduated from Year 12.

This May he also completed the Aquatic Technical Operator course with Royal Life Saving WA in Perth. Once his final practical training is complete, Blake will be fully qualified, making him the first locally trained resident ready to manage the Leinster Swimming Pool!

Talent Pool is a youth employment initiative from Royal Life Saving WA that creates real career pathways in regional areas, particularly in the aquatic industry where qualified staff are in constant demand. Through training and mentoring, participants gain the skills they need for roles like Pool Lifeguard, Swim Teacher, Duty Officer, or Pool Manager.

Goldfields Talent Pool Coordinator Clint Kelleher says strong local support from parents has helped the program grow. Blake’s father, Gordon, shared that Talent Pool has made all the difference for Blake.

“Clint gives [young people] the confidence and skills necessary to enter the workforce.”

Since launching in Leinster, the program has welcomed 11 local high school students, with several going on to full-time jobs or further training. Blake continues to support younger students by helping lead the Community Rescue Club each summer and teaching water safety and rescue skills to 6-12 year-olds.

Blake’s commitment over the past two and a half years has helped shape the success of Talent Pool in Leinster and demonstrates to other young people what’s possible.

Thank you to BHP and the Leinster community for helping make it all possible.