With warmer weather around the corner it’s time to think about teaching young people to swim and be safe in the water.

Summer VACSWIM enrolments have opened and due to the popularity of local options, Finniss MP David Basham is encouraging early booking on the VACSWIM website. 

Administered by Surf Life Saving SA, VACSWIM equips children aged 3 to 12 with essential skills to thrive in the water.

Through engaging lessons during the December and January school holidays, VACSWIM fosters:

• Water safety awareness.
• Confidence in the aquatic environment.
• Competency in swimming techniques.
• Essential personal survival skills.
• Understanding of basic aquatic emergency procedures.
• The sessions are held in four, five-day blocks from mid December.
• Mr Basham says the state government funds VACSWIM to provided subsidised water safety programs. 

“Established in the 1950s, VACSWIM has become a household name in South Australia. 

“Each year, the program engages thousands of pre and primary school aged children in locations across the state. 

“VACSWIM's vision is a reduction in the incidences of drowning amongst the younger generations.”

“Each year it is a delight to see VACSWIM students and their families enjoying all the good things of this region and learning how to do so safely.

“Last year nearly 900 young people learnt more about swimming and water safety at Goolwa, Victor Harbor and Pt Elliot with VACSWIM – I am very keen to see more children access this lifechanging program.”

Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island locations for VACSWIM include:

• Aldinga Beach
• Chiton
• Goolwa Beach
• Fleurieu Aquatic Centre
• Normanville Beach
• Penneshaw Beach
• Port Elliot 
• Port Noarlunga 
• Strathalbyn Outdoor Pool
• Victor Harbor Primary School

The Finniss Electorate office has printed copies of a flyer with local options available and can offer assistance booking or finding locations on the south coast.

Visit the VACSWIM website for more information.