Media Statement
Attention: News Editor / Chief of Staff
October 22, 2010
Thousands of children to learn about water safety
More than 50,000 Western Australian children will learn essential water safety skills this summer when
they take part in the Department of Education’s VacSwim program.
Department of Education’s Manager of Swimming and Water Safety Les Lazarakis said parents are
increasingly recognising the importance of their children learning to swim.
“Learning how to stay safe in the water from an early age saves lives and, with more awareness of this
fact, VacSwim is becoming more popular,” Mr Lazarakis said.
“The summer holidays are the perfect time to enrol children in swimming and safety lessons.
“Not only does it keep children entertained and active, it also provides invaluable skills that they will
have for the rest of their lives.”
Mr Lazarakis said statistics provided by the Royal Life Saving Society of WA indicates that each year at
least one child aged between six and 14 drowns in WA.
“The festive season can be a dangerous time because many celebrations take place near water and
adults can be distracted,” Mr Lazarakis said.
“VacSwim offers families an affordable way to learn to swim for just $1 a day plus pool entry.”
This season celebrates 92 years of the program operating, having grown from its beginnings in 1919
when five instructors taught 248 children at just three venues.
Last year, more than 52,000 children took part in the program, which runs during the October and
January school holidays at more than 200 beach and pool locations across the state.
VacSwim, which caters for children aged over five years and for all levels from beginner to advanced
survival, rescue and resuscitation, has become one of the largest and most popular vacation swimming
programs in Australia.
Enrolments close November 10. Limited late enrolments may be available.
For information on classes and how to enrol phone 9344 0999 or visit the VacSwim website at
det.wa.edu.au/swimming
(ENDS)
Media contact: 9264 4857
NEWS 
