The VICSWIM learn-to-swim program is returning to the region this summer with increased funding for affordable children’s swimming lessons.
Pool sessions will be offered at Colbinabbin and Stanhope in Campaspe Shire, and Cohuna, Kerang, and Koondrook in Gannawarra Shire.
An inland waterway program will also be available for one week, from Monday, January 13 to Friday, January 17 at Greens Lake near Corop.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the program would help to ensure children were safe waterside this summer.
“Kids can learn the skills and water safety knowledge they need to enjoy their summers by the pool, river and near the ocean,” she said.
An additional $117,000 has been invested to deliver tailored programs for children with a disability and from multicultural backgrounds, adding 400 more spots statewide.
Last summer, over 16,000 kids took part in the program at partner swimming centres across the state, with the majority located in regional Victoria.
Families with kids aged four to 12 can choose to enrol in five 30-minute lessons, which run over the course of a week, or four 35-minute lessons.
Applications for the program, which teaches children basic swimming skills and water safety, opened at 10am on Wednesday, November 13.
Programs will be held over three weeks between Monday, January 6 and Friday, January 24.
Children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds can attend swim lessons in Sheppartion, Mildura and Wodonga.
For a full list of locations, more information, and registrations visit vicswim.com.au.