Presented by Royal Life Saving Society – Australia, Leisurelink were one of six individuals and organisations recognised in the National Aquatic Industry Safety Awards for their significant contribution to aquatic safety within their community.
Leisurelink were awarded Excellence in Staff Development for their comprehensive lifeguard training program.
Wanting to do more in depth training for lifeguards, the City of Greater Geelong developed a range of interactive training sessions across their six facilities which mimicked real life scenarios.
Scott Schefferle, Aquatic Team Leader, Leisurelink said they’ve strived to create new and engaging initiatives to educate facility lifeguards.
“The training is all hands on, and uses a range of specialised equipment including an advanced digital CPR manikin. Peter, our Aquatic Coordinator has even created life like props for first aid including artifical wounds and burns.”
“We’re elated to see that the training has made our facility safer for our staff and community. It is great to observe when our staff do have to respond to incidents that they do so with a high level of confidence and professionalism,” said Scott.
The awards are an initiative of the National Aquatic Industry Safety Committee to acknowledge the achievements of aquatic facilities and individuals towards improving health and safety outcomes.
Scott said winning Excellence in Staff Development is a fantastic recognition of their dedication to their staff and community.
“Our staff are absolutely thrilled with the national recognition of such a great award which places a lot of value into our sessions,” said Scott Schefferle, Aquatic Team Leader, Leisurelink.
Between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2015, there were 293 drowning incidents in public and commercial pools across Australia. Thirty-six of these were fatal (12%).[1]
Craig Roberts, National Manager Operations, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia said, “Drowning deaths and incidents at aquatic facilities are lower than other popular aquatic locations, however, we are continually working to reduce this to 0.”
“There are some great initiatives which are creating safer aquatic environments for children and adults across the country. The awards were established to recognise these efforts and inspire others to review and further develop their own health and safety policies and procedures.”
[1] Mahony, A, Peden, AE, Roberts, C, Barnsley, P (2018) A 10 year analysis of drowning in Aquatic Facilities: Exploring risk at Communal, Public and Commercial swimming pools, Royal Life Saving Society - Australia
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