The Ipswich City Council’s SEAL Pool Safety Program is supporting a four-week program to encourage those with a disability to develop their water skills and understanding of water safety.
Council has joined with the Royal Life Saving Queensland to bring the Water STAARS (Support to Access Aquatic Recreational Spaces) Program to the Orion Lagoon, Springfield Central starting on 5 February.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said water familiarisation classes are a good idea for teaching anybody how to stay safe around the water.
“These classes provide useful information about what to do when in or around water and are relevant for anyone carrying out water-related activities,” Cr Fechner said.
“Sessions will be a mixture of water activities and fun lagoon deck games for all those involved.
“The lessons will be broken into three age groups and will be conducted by qualified Royal Life Saving Queensland’s Disability Instructors in a safe and supportive environment.
“Bookings are essential as numbers are capped per session and all participants must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or carer who can actively assist and participate in the water during each session.”
The sessions will be held each Monday in February (5, 12, 19 and 26 February 2024) at the following times:
- Children 6-12 years: 10am – 11am,
- Youth 13-17 years: 11am – Noon, and
- Adults 18+ years: Noon – 1pm.
Cr Fechner encourages parents, guardians and carers with questions to reach out to council directly to discuss any questions or requests regarding the Water STAARS Program.
“Our friendly team is here to assist everyone. You can contact our Pool Safety Team by telephone on 3810 6120 or email poolsprogram@ipswich.qld.gov.au,” Cr Fechner said.
“For more information or to access online bookings, please visit our website here. With the right training everyone should be able to take advantage of the wonderful facilities on offer in the Ipswich area.”