Almost 4000 culturally and linguistically diverse Logan residents will receive free swimming lessons amid disproportionately high migrant and refugee drowning rates.
A $120,000 state government grant secured by The Aqua English Project will enable the organisation to deliver free lessons to diverse locals aged 16 to 24.
The funding will provide lessons for a further 3900 locals over the next two years.
It will also go towards training 25 participants who will earn qualifications for employment as “bicultural aquatic assistants”.
The Aqua English Project founding director Sarah Scarce said her team hoped to ensure “all participants can engage safely in and around the pool – safe entry, floating, keep watch and active supervision”.
“… because we know that’s vital,” Ms Scarce said.
“According to the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, refugees and migrants arriving in Australia show significantly higher rates of drowning within the first five to ten years than people who have been in Australia longer or were born here.
“You can’t be what you can’t see, and a deliberate strategy that seeks to engage and empower trainees from multicultural backgrounds is essential for drowning prevention and genuine participation in one of Australia’s most iconic pastimes.
“We are thrilled to receive funding for this program.”
The program, which includes CPR training, is being delivered at the Gould Adams Park Aquatic Centre.
Since launching in 2006, the Aqua English Project has delivered swimming and water safety programs to more than 34,000 people of different ages from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Queensland.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen said if you live in Queensland, “”knowing how to swim is a must”.
“However, we recognise some young people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities have not had the chance to be exposed to swimming activities,” Ms Mullen said.
“The ‘Empowered to Swim’ program will teach them how to safely enjoy our wonderful lifestyle in Queensland in and around beaches, rivers and pools.
Member for Waterford Shannon Fentiman said ensuring young Queenslanders felt confident in and around water was “”absolutely crucial”.
“I know how much my Logan community values the ‘Empowered to Swim’ program and I am extremely pleased that this investment will ensure thousands more can benefit,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Building more inclusive programs to support the next generation of Queenslanders is invaluable.
Member for Logan Linus Power said swimming skills would help migrants enjoy a typical Aussie day at the beach.
“There is nothing as Australian as enjoying a day at the beach, pool, river or dam with family and friends,” Mr Power said.
“That’s why this little bit of help to teach swimming not only keeps families safe, but it also brings Australians together.
“When young people from all over the world share time at the beach at a BBQ, everyone should feel safe having a swim and this program helps.”
