Victorian Government backs VICSWIM 2014 program

Children across Victoria are gearing up for another summer of learn-to-swim activities, following the launch of the 2014 VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program by Victorian Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty.

Joined for the launch by Mayor of the City of Hobsons Bay Councillor Angela Altair, President of Life Saving Victoria Tom Mollenkoph and Victorian Institute of Sport Commonwealth Games swimmer Sam Marshall at the Williamstown Swimming and Surf Life Saving Club, Minister Delahunty said that the 2014 program is set to be the most popular yet.

He explained "the VICSWIM Summer Kidz program just keeps getting better with a record 7,500 enrolments last summer, meaning more kids than ever are getting involved in learn-to-swim activities around Victoria.

"This year the program is expected to involve over 130 instructors providing low cost swimming lessons at an expected 127 venues.

"These numbers are steadily increasing which is a reflection of the reputation of this program, thanks to the efforts of project partner Aquatics and Recreation Victoria in establishing and supporting this great initiative."

Minister Delahunty said that this year there would be more open water venues to choose from which provides the opportunity for kids to learn the challenges of swimming at the beach in a safe environment, adding "through the VICSWIM program, kids not only learn important survival skills, but they also have the chance to make new friends and boost their health by getting more active more often, in and around water.

"I encourage families to get in quick and sign up their children at their nearest participating pool or open water venue."

An Aquatics & Recreation Victoria program, VICSWIM is being financially supported by the Victorian Government at a cost of $1.6 million over four years, to increase participation and access to valuable aquatic education and water safety skills for children, especially in rural and regional Victoria.

The VICSWIM Summer Kidz learn-to-swim and water safety program is designed for participants between four and 12 years of age and will be held from Mondays to Fridays during the January 2014 school holidays.

For all program details and locations contact VICSWIM Coordinator Kellie Ellingworth on 03 9271 3800, E: vicswim@aquaticsandrecreation.org.au, www.vicswim.com.au

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