12 November 2026
New lifesaving challenge puts teamwork to the test at Pilbara Spirit Carnival
Working together to tow a rescue manikin was a new challenge for students at this year’s Pilbara Spirit Swimming and Lifesaving Carnival, bringing another practical lifesaving activity to a day focused on participation, teamwork and water safety.
Held at South Hedland Aquatic Centre on Thursday 5 November, the 12th annual carnival brought together 100 Year 5 and 6 students from across the Pilbara.
The eight schools attending were Baler Primary School, Jigalong Remote Community School, Marble Bar Primary School, Port Hedland Primary School, Roebourne District High School, St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School, South Hedland Primary School and Yandeyarra Remote Community School.
For children living in regional and remote communities, access to organised swimming events and aquatic sports can be limited. The carnival provides an opportunity to build on skills developed through the Swim and Survive program while connecting with children from other schools.
Royal Life Saving General Manager of Education and Training Trent Hotchkin has previously highlighted the challenges facing regional children, who often have fewer opportunities to learn to swim despite facing higher drowning risks.
“The Spirit Carnival is a great example of how communities can come together to make a real difference in children’s lives,” he said.
“Events like this help bridge that gap by giving students hands-on experience in water safety, teamwork, and lifesaving skills.”
Alongside the new manikin tow, obstacle races, rescue tube relays and rope throw challenges put students’ swimming and lifesaving abilities into practice. The mix of individual and team activities encouraged students to have a go and cheer each other on.
The day wrapped up with a round robin of artistic swimming, water polo, kayaking and lifejacket relays, with support from Artistic Swimming WA and Water Polo WA.
The carnival was made possible with support from the Town of Port Hedland and Royal Life Saving WA’s Principal Community Partner, BHP. Through its renewed three-year, $2.85 million partnership, BHP is helping communities across the Pilbara and Goldfields access swimming and water safety education, get involved in local programs and pursue employment in the aquatic industry.
