INSIDE: MOBILE PUMP TRACK FOR CITY, PET OF THE WEEK + MORE
Council News CITY OF WAGGA WAGGA
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER 2020
Issue No: 324
Weekly information from us to you
Outback Lifesaver program a first in nsw
WATER SAFETY FIRST: Royal Life Saving NSW Riverina Regional Manager Michael Dasey (left) and Wagga Wagga City Council Strategic Recreation Officer Peter Cook announce the Outback Lifesaver program at Wagga Beach this week. The program will be rolled out in the city early next year – the first centre in the State to run the pilot program for up to 120 primary school children.
Water safety program for local kids Wagga Wagga City Council and Royal Life Saving NSW have partnered to deliver the state’s first Outback Lifesaver program commencing in January 2021. Up to 120 primary-aged kids will participate in Wagga Wagga during Term 1, 2021. Royal Life Saving’s Outback Lifesaver Coordinator Renee Amidy said the pilot program is aimed at children aged 8 to 13 years and would be conducted in local
pools and inland waterways. “Outback Lifesaver is all about active fun,” Ms Amidy said. “The skills and experiences that these children will gain in the program will provide for future generations of community lifesavers.” A long-time advocate of river safety education, Councillor Vanessa Keenan said the most effective way to raise awareness is to teach children skills and knowledge as early as possible. “Kids are also great at reminding us adults when we get complacent around safety,” Cr Keenan said. “We live right alongside one of the most dangerous inland waterways in the country but there is no reason why we can’t respect
the river and enjoy all it has to offer and for our kids to learn how to do so also.” Council’s Strategic Recreation Officer Peter Cook was instrumental in ensuring appropriate funding and support for the valuable community program. “Council is committed to the region’s local inland water safety management plan,” Mr Cook said. “Outback Lifesaver provides an excellent community engagement and education opportunity.” The Outback Lifesaver program seeks to provide participants with: • increased aquatic skills and proficiencies for a range of aquatic environments • increased aquatic and community safety knowledge relevant to local
surroundings and conditions • increased understanding of local aquatic environments, including pools, rivers, lakes and dams and their associated risks and hazards • great fun and enjoyment – lots of laughter with friends and peers • an appreciation for local aquatic environments and the need to respect such environments • health, wellbeing and social outcomes • enhanced understanding and support for safe local communities. Bookings are open now and spaces are limited. For more information visit royalnsw.com.au/EDUCATION/OutbackLifesaver Continued on page 2.
Weekly waste tip Clothing and footwear in good condition can be donated to local charities through identified donation bins or call your local op shop to arrange drop off. Always place clothing and footwear in poor condition in the red lid bin.