3 November 2026

Smiles and swimming milestones as lessons return to Kalumburu

Essential swimming and water safety skills were on the timetable for students from Kalumburu Remote Community School as Interm swimming lessons returned for Term 4.

Delivered at the community pool during the first two weeks of October, the program helped students develop their Swim and Survive skills in the far north of the Kimberley.

Royal Life Saving WA swim teacher Lisa travelled to the community to deliver the lessons alongside Remote Pool Manager Bronwyn Ray. Coordinated and delivered by Royal Life Saving WA under a contract with the Department of Education, the program brought students into the water for practical learning, encouragement and plenty of fun.

For Lisa, watching the children make progress was a highlight of the trip.

“I am not sure who had more fun, them or me,” she said.

“Seeing their huge smiles and those lightbulb moments when the swimming all came together will stay with me for a long time.”

With groups of varying swimming abilities, the support of school staff helped Lisa make the most of each 50-minute lesson.

Lisa praised pool managers Bronwyn and Mark for the knowledge, kindness and support they shared with her and the community each day. Their local experience, together with the involvement of school staff, was an important part of bringing the lessons to life.

The opportunity to develop these skills is particularly important in the Kimberley, which recorded the second-highest regional drowning rate in Australia in the 2026 National Drowning Report.

Royal Life Saving WA Education Manager – Member Engagement & Remote Programs, Catherine Buckley, said continued access to lessons was vital for children in remote communities.

“Swimming and water safety skills are so important for children in remote communities, which is why it’s great to see these lessons continuing in Kalumburu,” Catherine said.

“It’s fantastic to work alongside our incredible swim teachers, remote pool managers and schools to make these programs happen and give children the opportunity to build confidence and develop skills that could one day save a life.”

For Lisa, the experience left memories that will last well beyond the two-week program.

“I will remember this trip and those children for a long time and am so grateful for the opportunity to work with them.”