Inland Water Safety Program

BALC’s Inland Water Safety Program aims to build lifesaving and water safety knowledge and skills in children aged 6 – 14 years in open water environments. Structured according to participants’ ages and abilities, the program will incorporate environmental and risk awareness, survival and rescue sills, and an introduction to emergency response through interactive activities. Day 1 will be held at BALC, before moving to the open water of Lake Wendouree on Days 2 & 3 (weather permitting).

Is this a learn to swim program?
No, participants will not learn traditional strokes. They will learn how to assess risk, rescues in open water, efficient movement through the water, boogie boards, local environment/connection with Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People.

What are the requirements for participation?
Students will be placed in groups according to age. Ability will be considered and determined on Day 1 at BALC.

Program Day
The first day of the program will be held at the Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre. Please arrive 15 minutes before start-time to sign in and collect your rash vest. The coordinator will explain how the program will run and introduce you to your instructor.

On days 2 & 3, the program will move to Lake Wendouree (weather permitting). Participants will be expected to meet at View Point (see map below) opposite The Lake View Hotel at their session time. Program signage will be on display at the lake to assist you in finding the program meeting point.

What Should My Child Bring?
A parent/guardian must be in attendance with them at each session. Please ensure your child has the following at each session:
– warm outer clothing
– towels
– wetsuit (preferable)
– bucket hat with secure tie
– closed-toe shoes (old runners to wear in the water) or water shoes for all 3 days
– sunscreen applied prior to the program
– water in a labelled drink bottle

Photography Consent
Photographs may be taken throughout the program. Photo release forms will be available at BALC on Day 1. Please advise staff if you do not want your child appearing in any photos.

Role of parents/guardians
– Parents/guardians accompanying a student/s to the program will remain on site for the duration of the program
– Advise staff of any medical condition which may impact on the participant
– In the case of an emergency ensure required medication is available
– Parents/guardians will be responsible for accompanying their child to the public toilets situated on the north side of the Boatshed Restaurant (approximately 25m from program site)
– Ensure participants practice SunSmart recommendations
– Monitor and be supportive in promoting good behaviour
– Ensure the participant is signed in and out of the program each day

Expectations of Program Staff
The program will be delivered by qualified AUSTSWIM Teachers of Swimming & Water Safety with support from Water Safety personnel.

– Respectful and courteous to program participants, parents/guardians, and staff
– Perform daily risk assessment of the program site (wet and dry) and adjust accordingly
– Provide high-vis rash vest for participants
– Staff will easily be identified by High vis rash vests and hats, lifeguards will be in lifeguard uniform and dry staff will wear a high vis vest
– Support Sun Smart procedure and role model sun safe behaviour
– Ensure all program equipment used is in good condition
– Ensure the supervision provided to all participants is of the highest level, providing a safe and FUN environment conducive to sound learning