VICSWIM 2013 – more locations for kids to learn to swim this summer
Even more swimming lessons will be on offer this summer courtesy of today’s launch of the 2013 VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program by the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty at Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre.
Mr Delahunty joined Ian Swan, CEO of Aquatics and Recreation Victoria at the Centre, one of 110 venues around Victoria set to offer the program in 2013.
“In 2012, the program exceeded its target by 63 per cent with over 4,800 kids around Victoria taking part in the learn-to-swim program,” Mr Delahunty said.
“An additional 31 locations are taking part in VICSWIM 2013, and spots are filling fast, with more than 1,000 enrolments already taken for the program, so I encourage Victorian families to sign up their children at their nearest participating pool or open water venue.”
The VICSWIM Summer Kidz learn-to-swim and water safety program is designed for participants between four and 12 years of age and will be run from Monday to Friday during the January 2013 school holidays.
“Through the VICSWIM program, kids not only learn important survival skills, but they also have the chance to make new friends and boost their health by getting more active more often, in and around the water over summer,” Mr Delahunty said.
As part of its 2010 election commitments the Victorian Coalition Government provided a $1.6 million lifeline to extend the popular program over four years.
“I’m extremely proud of this program; our investment ensures even more children now have fair and equitable access to a learn-to-swim program in their local area,” Mr Delahunty said.
“More than 50 per cent of the participants will be from targeted groups, including children in regional or rural areas, new arrivals and refugees, children from non-English speaking backgrounds and children from the Indigenous community.
“Most importantly, the program gives children the skills to minimise the risk of drowning at an age when they’re most vulnerable,” Mr Delahunty said.
For more information about the program, participating venues and how to enrol, please visit www.vicswim.com.au
Download PDF44.35 KBVicswim venues32.77 KB
