Pioneering Sensory-Based Water Safety Program at MAC

Published on 16 June 2023

Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (MAC) is offering a sensory-based water safety program for children from pre-school to primary school age in partnership with Life Saving Victoria during the upcoming school holidays.

The Sensory Water Safety Fun sessions will be held on Monday 26 June and Friday 30 June, from 9.30am to 1pm at MAC – the activities are free, with standard pool entry fees applicable.

A key feature of these sessions is "The Bubble," a ground-breaking sensory-friendly learning space designed to help educate children in critical water safety, all while staying dry.

This program expands MAC's extensive range of over 650 weekly swimming, diving, and water safety classes delivered by a team of multilingual, experienced instructors.

City of Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter, has championed the program as a progressive step towards improved water safety.

"Learning how to be safe in and around water is vital life knowledge," Mayor Carter said.

“Inclusivity and adaptability in providing swimming and water safety programs has never been more important. The Bubble's' sensory-based approach will enrich the learning experience, not only for those with sensory processing sensitivities, autism spectrum disorders, or other neurodevelopmental conditions, but all children.”

This new initiative forms part of Council's broader mission to promote education and awareness around water safety within Maribyrnong.

The response is timely, given the increasing number of drowning deaths reported by Royal Life Saving Australia. Deaths rose by 15 per cent in the year leading up to July 2022, marking a 24 per cent increase compared to the 10-year average.

For more information about the Sensory Water Safety Fun school holiday sessions, please visit here.

Maribyrnong News

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