9 November 2026
Geraldton welcomes new addition to inclusive swimming programs
Demand for inclusive swimming and water safety education continues to grow in Geraldton, with local initiatives attracting strong interest from families, schools and community organisations.
Among these is the new Teen Girls program, launched in Term 3 which has received positive feedback for providing a welcoming space where teenage girls can improve their swimming abilities and gain confidence in the water.
It builds on Royal Life Saving WA’s existing opportunities in the region, including Specialised Access and Inclusion Lessons (SAIL) which welcomed 20 participants, and multicultural swimming lessons attended by 40 children and teenagers. All of which are done in collaboration with Geraldton Aquarena Swim School.
Royal Life Saving WA Regional and Remote Inclusion Coordinator Lynette Farley said the response demonstrates the value of offering programs that cater to different community needs.
“It's been fantastic to see strong community interest across our swimming and water safety programs. The launch of the Teen Girls program has provided a valuable new opportunity for young women, while the continued success of SAIL and our children's programs reflects the importance of accessible, inclusive aquatic education in regional communities."
The importance of reaching regional communities is reflected in the National Drowning Report 2026, which identified the Mid West as having the second-highest drowning rate in WA. The findings highlight the ongoing need to strengthen drowning prevention efforts in regional WA.
Partners Mitsui E&P and Beach Energy play an important role in supporting the delivery of Royal Life Saving WA’s programs throughout the Mid West. Their continued support is helping more children and families develop essential skills that can make a difference both in and around the water.
As more people take part in these lessons, we need more swim teachers to help meet the growing demand. If you enjoy working with people and want to make a real difference in your community, becoming a qualified swim teacher is a rewarding way to help others build confidence and stay safe around water.
Learn more about becoming a swim teacher.
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