Southern Grampians Shire Council offers Lifeguard Training ahead of Summer

Southern Grampians Shire residents interested in Lifeguard training are invited to book their spot in the upcoming course hosted by Life Saving Victoria at the Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre (HILAC).

The nationally recognised two-day course will be held at HILAC from 15th – 16th October 2022 and 12th – 13th November 2022.

The course will offer budding lifeguards an opportunity to train locally, and build life-long skills including water rescues, resuscitation practises (CPR), pool surveillance and scanning techniques, leadership, communication and more.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Bruach Colliton said the training provides locals with a great opportunity to make a difference in their community.

“You might be someone who is after a refresher course or someone who is completely new to the field,” said Mayor Colliton. “Either way, the course offers our emerging lifeguards a chance to grow professionally and to develop some really important and tangible lifesaving skills.

“Last year was incredibly tough to service our outer township pools due to lack of available lifeguards. So this year, let’s set the challenge to all those thinking about having a go to put your hand up, book in for the training to develop your skills, and look towards the upcoming summer season.

“Not only is it a great way to support our Southern Grampians community and the local outdoor pools, but offers locals an important opportunity to gain life skills, and to give back to the region while earning an income.”

Lifeguards Quinlan Donehue and Rachel Page said the training paved the way for a rewarding career.

Donehue advised “Lifeguarding is a rewarding career and is more than just keeping patrons safe around water. It’s a lifelong skill, which you can carry into further and future opportunities. The hours are flexible, and it’s a great summer position - I love my job.”

Page added “through lifeguard training you learn problem solving skills and first aid which is helpful not only for the job but in everyday life. This has allowed me to gain confidence and life skills.”

Bookings for Lifeguard Training can be made by going to Life Saving Victoria’s website

Training runs between 9:00am and 5:00pm and cost is $320 to book. For more information, eligibility criteria and to book a training session, contact HILAC on 5551 4300.

Image courtesy Life Saving Victoria