9 January 2026

Kwinana SAIL lessons lead to lifeguarding success

Learning to swim is a lifesaving skill for anyone, but for eighteen-year-old Kaedan McCabe the experience helped shape who he is today.

Kaedan started swimming at Kwinana Recquatic Centre as an infant and quickly developed a love of the water. Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the busy pace of group lessons eventually became overwhelming, and by the time he reached Stage 3, keeping up with instructions and swimming in a crowded pool became increasingly difficult.

In 2016, Kaedan moved into Specialised Access and Inclusion Lessons (SAIL), where one-on-one swimming and water safety lessons were shaped around his needs. In the calmer, more supportive environment, Kaedan found his confidence again and began to thrive.

With support from the Swim and Survive Fund, Kaedan’s family was able to access SAIL lessons that gave him the time and space he needed to build confidence in the water. Flexible lesson structures, clear goal setting and consistent encouragement helped him progress steadily, while dedicated instructors Vananga, Emma, Joanne and Mandy supported Kaedan every step of the way.

With growing confidence, Kaedan successfully reintegrated into mainstream swimming lessons and completed every level of the Swim and Survive program. He then went on to achieve his Bronze Medallion, a demanding qualification requiring strong swimming ability, rescue skills, and sound decision making. More recently, Kaedan completed his Pool Lifeguard qualification, a significant milestone that reflects his responsibility and resilience.

Now eighteen, Kaedan is a qualified Lifeguard and holds a Certificate II in Sport and Recreation. His journey from SAIL participant to aquatic professional highlights what is possible when children are given the right support at the right time.

“For many of our families, the financial support offered through Royal Life Saving WA is life changing,” a City of Kwinana spokesperson shared. “Many face significant costs associated with therapy, medication, and daily living, and the subsidy helps lighten that load, ensuring their children don’t miss out on essential water safety education.”

“One of our most inspiring success stories is Kaedan. With the flexibility to take breaks and focus on individual goals, his confidence and skills flourished. SAIL doesn’t just teach swimming; it builds confidence, encourages inclusion, strengthens community connection, and ensures children who may otherwise miss out have every opportunity to thrive in and around the water.”

The SAIL program supports children who require specialised instruction due to physical, sensory, behavioural, or intellectual needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder by removing financial barriers to private lessons. This support is critical, as children aged 0-9 with ASD are disproportionately represented in drowning statistics.

By providing subsidised, one-on-one lessons, SAIL removes barriers to participation and ensures children can access essential water safety education. Kaedan’s story reflects the long-term impact of inclusive programs like SAIL, creating pathways to confidence, inclusion and even long-term careers within the aquatic industry.

Families interested in learning more about Specialised Access and Inclusion Lessons (SAIL) can find further information below: