Welcoming an additional $23 million in funding for Surf Life Saving (SLS) in NSW, Ms Finn said that while it was important to encourage swimming between the flags and highlighting their exceptional work on patrolled beaches, it was essential to recognise that most drownings occurred in inland lakes, rivers and unpatrolled beaches.
“We have a long way to go to improve the communities I represent,” she said.
“We need comprehensive strategies to address water safety in these areas.
“Addressing drownings and promoting swimming skills among new arrivals is crucial. Many people coming from overseas may not know how to swim, and we must support initiatives like Swim Sisters and Swim Brothers, which have been instrumental in teaching swimming skills, particularly within the Muslim community.”
Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on Tuesday, July 25, Ms Finn said she was also concerned about the number of schools in the Granville electorate they don’t offer school swimming.
And for those schools who do, many would be on a first come, first serve basis, because of limited transport.
“There’s a whole range of problems and we really do need holistic solutions,” Ms Finn said.
“It’s important to make sure people learn to swim.”
Ms Finn commended the work of two groups – Swim Sisters and Swim Brothers who have made a significant impact by empowering diverse communities with essential swimming skills.
“Their work at pools, beaches, and in collaboration with surf clubs truly makes a big difference,” she said.
In a bid to prevent drowning related incidents, Cumberland Council began a push earlier this year promoting the importance of safety and awareness around waterways by launching a Water Safety Campaign.
For those who want to learn to swim or better their swimming capabilities, Cumberland Council also offers a range programs through its pools, teaching skills in water safety, confidence and survival.
