Building water confidence from an early age is crucial, and thanks to a free Infant Aquatics program, young children in Quairading now have the chance to learn vital swimming skills close to home.
For many regional families, accessing swimming lessons has long been a challenge due to both distance and cost. The closest facility offering lessons for children under five was more than two hours away, until now.
With support from Royal Life Saving WA’s Swim and Survive Fund, the Shire of Quairading successfully hosted an eight-week Infant Aquatics program at the Quairading Aquatic Centre, giving local families the opportunity to participate.
Quairading Shire President Trevor Stacey highlighted the importance of the initiative for the community.
“Providing free infant swim lessons to children under five is an essential initiative for our community, especially in a rural area like Quairading, where access to swimming facilities and programs can be limited. By offering these lessons locally, we are not only teaching vital swim and survival skills to our youngest and most vulnerable age group, but we're also removing the barriers that often prevent families from accessing such programs.”
Designed for children aged three months to five years, the program introduced 33 young participants to fundamental water safety skills in a supportive and engaging setting. A qualified instructor led the lessons, with the Shire of Quairading generously providing access to the heated learn-to-swim pool.
Local parent Kate Walker, whose children Jack (1) and Cleo (4) took part, shared her enthusiasm for the program’s impact.
“The baby swim program has been a highlight of the summer season in Quairading. The lessons bring the families of young children together in town to socialise and connect, while the kids are getting essential, age-appropriate water awareness and swimming skills. The lessons are fun and engaging, while being flexible to meet each child’s differing needs, so their water confidence and ability grows. I have loved how the baby swim program transitions smoothly into school-based swimming lessons and all the kids who participate have really benefitted from the program.”
By bringing lifesaving swim lessons to Quairading, Royal Life Saving WA is ensuring that more regional children gain the skills they need to stay safe around water. The Swim and Survive Fund continues to make programs like this possible through generous community support. Your support can help more children access vital swimming lessons and develop essential water safety skills.
Visit the link below to learn more about the Swim and Survive Fund and how you can make a difference.
