Thirty-three men and women have successfully completed a new water safety and swimming program designed to reduce drownings in multicultural communities.
The 10-week “Safely Engaging with Water” program was launched in partnership with the Officer Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar, Aligned Leisure, and Life Saving Victoria. It aims to teach participants essential water skills and safety knowledge to protect themselves and their loved ones.
At the graduation ceremony, Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra, an academic from Federation University who initiated the program, praised the dedication of the participants. Out of the 37 who enrolled, 33 (16 men and 17 women) graduated, ready to serve as role models in their communities.
“These men and women have shown great commitment to improving their water safety skills,” said Dr Kandra. “They will now lead by example, spreading awareness about water safety across multicultural communities in Victoria and beyond.”
The pilot program has gained popularity, with over 60 people on the waiting list. Plans are in place to expand the program to more areas, including Caroline Springs, Casey, and Dandenong.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Cassandra Fernando, Federal MP for Holt, Emma Vulin, State Member Pakenham, Lee Tarlamis, Member for the Southeastern Metropolitan Region in the Victorian Legislative Council, Michael Galea, Member for the Southeastern Metropolitan Region in the Victorian Legislative Council, Jack Kowarzik, Mayor Cardinia Shire Council and Viv Nguyen, Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission.
Culturally diverse communities are disproportionately affected by drownings, being five times more likely to drown than the general population. David Holland, Life Saving Victoria’s Strategic Adviser for Diversity, highlighted the importance of role models in promoting water safety.
“This program not only teaches essential water skills but also empowers participants to become leaders in their communities,” he said.
For more details, contact Harpreet Singh at 0447 02 8688 or info@sgnd.com.au
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