The participants began the day at 8:45am where they were presented with a water safety essentials bag including a t-shirt, towel and water-proof swim bag. Following introductions and some basic water safety information, they were taken down to the beach and prepared to enter the water. For many of the participants, this was their first time learning how to enter the water, move through the wave zone and swimming at the beach. It was a scary but fun session with smiles all around.
A big session means a big lunch and with some delicious sandwiches and bao buns, students regained their energy. Participants then proceeded to learn about CPR, completing hands-on activities with manakins in small groups. Following a presentation about identifying and spotting rips in the ocean, they then entered the pool on Coogee’s southern end to learn how to float and porpoise.
It was a huge day with so much learning and new information. A huge thank you to Coogee SLSC for their incredible volunteers and time.
By Oliver Jackson
Water Safety Assistant
UNSW Health Promotion Unit, UNSW SYDNEY 2052
To learn more about UNSW programs, visit UNSW Learn to Swim Program & Beach Ocean Safe Program.
A collaboration between UNSW, Coogee Surf Life Saving Club & Surf Life Saving NSW.
