Youths assault young lifeguard at Casey ARC

A young lifeguard at the Casey Aquatic and Recreation Centre (ARC) in the Melbourne suburb of Narre Warren has been taken to hospital after being assaulted by a gang of youths yesterday afternoon.

The 19-year-old lifeguard had warned the youths about dangerous pool stunts, such as flips, close to other swimmers, including children, while at the Aligned Leisure operated swimming pool in Melbourne's south-east.

Nine News reported that the large group of youths headbutted, kicked and punched the lifeguard before fleeing.

The lifeguard was taken to Dandenong hospital with bruises, cuts and scratches across his upper body before being discharged.

City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen told media said the council had taken "immediate steps to increase security" at council-owned aquatic centres.

Mayor Koomen added “on behalf of the council, I want to reassure our community that we are deeply committed to making our aquatic facilities safe for everyone to enjoy.

"We are actively supporting the police investigation and providing all necessary assistance.

"We are taking immediate steps to increase security at all our aquatic centres to ensure a safe environment for everyone."

“The City of Casey, in partnership with Aligned Leisure, is providing support to the lifeguard and all staff involved.”

The assault followed a recent post to the Casey ARC Facebook page reminding visitors to “treat staff and fellow swimmers with respect.”

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In a statement, Life Saving Victoria advised that it is “committed to working closely with aquatic venues to ensure adherence to procedures and compliance standards, prioritising the safety of both staff and patrons at all times”.

Royal Life Saving Society - Australia highlighted its 'Keep Your Cool at the Pool' campaign - launched at the start of the summer - which sets clear behavioural expectations for patrons.

Royal Life Saving General Manager - Capability & Industry, RJ Houston told Australasian Leisure Management “while the campaign this summer represents a good start, Royal Life Saving Australia is working with members and industry partners to develop additional resources, including training resources and guidance, that will assist facility owners and operators in implementing procedures which address these types of situations.

“Violence and aggression towards lifeguards and swim teachers is unacceptable. Our campaign has been developed to reinforce a culture of respect, cooperation, and zero-tolerance for aggression in aquatic facilities.”

Lifeguards at the Casey ARC. (Used for illustrative purposes only).