As residents in Hume flock to the pool during the warmer weather, public pools are struggling to keep operations going as the state experiences a shortage of lifeguards.
During last week’s heat wave Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre in Craigieburn had to close the waterslides due to staff shortages.
The shortages are being seen across the state prompting Life Saving Victoria (LSV) to call on the community to take the plunge and become a lifeguard.
LSV manager of aquatic industry services Alek Olszewski said the industry was hardest hit by COVID-19, having to close first and reopen last.
“LSV continues to train record numbers of lifeguards but despite this, some Victorian regions have still struggled to recruit staff members, which may lead to facilities reducing their operating hours,” he said.
“We strongly encourage people who want to give back to their communities and to live a more active lifestyle to get in touch with their local aquatic facility and to become a lifeguard, this includes older Australians, people from CALD communities and people who may not have had previous experience.
“It’s a great way to give back to your community, a great industry to work in and a good way to make a little bit of extra money in the current economic circumstances.”
Mr Olszewski said LSV recognised the ongoing support swim centres need to continue operations.
“LSV is endorsing Victorian government programs to boost lifeguard and swim teacher numbers including the New Wave and Youth Aquatic Accreditation Programs, which aim to attract new people to the industry,” he said.
Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said his municipality has made the most of the Youth Aquatic Accreditation Program having trained up 13 new swimming teachers who now work in three of the area’s swim centres.
“Swimming is an essential skill for everyone in Hume, which is why we are continually recruiting more swim teachers across our aquatic centres,” he said.
“We are continuing to address the significant wait times for swim classes – to ensure that all young locals can learn to be safe around the water.”
