Brimbank kids aged 8—10 are invited to take part in a week of swimming lessons at no charge as part of a new program that will test a new way of learning to swim – the Platypus Swim Trainer.
Speaking ahead of Water Safety Week, from 2—6 December, Brimbank Mayor Cr Ranka Rasic said 100 children could access the five day swimming lesson, water safety and Platypus Swim Trainer program.
“Run by Life Saving Victoria at Sunshine Leisure Centre, this program will help children of all abilities to learn to swim, improve their swimming technique and build confidence around water,” Cr Rasic said.
“Cooling down at the local pool or beach is a fantastic way to relax during summer – but it’s important that we teach our children to be safe around water, while having fun.
“Research indicates that one in three children leave primary school without sufficient water safety knowledge, studies like this will assist in reducing these numbers.
“This will also be particularly helpful for children who may have missed out on swimming lessons due to COVID-19 restrictions.”
Funded through a Brimbank Community Strengthening Grant, the program will measure the functionality and effectiveness of the newly created Platypus Swim Trainer, developed by Life Saving Victoria.
The Platypus Swim Trainer includes a virtual reality component and touch sensors to mimic swim motions, and is being tested as an option to teach swimming techniques to young people without access to a pool or beach.
Participants will be split into groups, with some using the Platypus Swim Trainer before or after their in-pool lesson, while others will have an in-pool lesson only.
Swimming lessons will be offered from Monday 7 December to Friday 11 December 2020, at set times between 4-6.30pm. Participants must be available to attend every lesson and parents must stay for the duration of the lesson.
Participants must be aged 8 to 10. Height and weight requirements also apply to be able to use the Platypus Swim Trainer due to machine specifications, with participants required to be 105cm to 155cm tall, and weigh less than 65kg.
Registering for the program is easy, check your eligibility and complete the booking form by visiting https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=685422&.
