The weather was perfect on Thursday, January 18, for the 120 local youngster undertaking their Bushnipper program at Thompson’s Beach.
Run by Moira Shire, in partnership with Barooga Sporties and Royal Life Saving Victoria, the week-long program is designed to teach students ages five to 13 how to stay safe in the water.
The Cobram Barooga program focused specifically on river water safety.
Among the life-saving skills taught to students were how to perform rescues, how to use boards and how to identify dangers within the water.
Charlotte Mason, aged 5, said she loved the program.
“It’s fun,” she said.
“My favourite part is being on the boards.”
Danielle Chesworth’s three children took part in the event and said she thought the program was excellent.
“They have absolutely loved it and want to come back every day,” she said.
“I think when you live on the river, you need to know its dangers. This program has opened my kid’s eyes to that.”
Barooga Aquatic and Recreation Centre Health Wellbeing Program team leader Teresa De Maio said it was all about raising awareness and safety.
“Thompson’s Beach is just such a big part of our community,” she said.
“The kids don’t really understand, and sometimes families don’t understand the dangers of the river. So here we are. All of our kids are out here learning to stay safe.”
Sporties Barooga chief executive officer Bobby Brooks said it was a great opportunity to work with local organisations.
"We recognise the valuable partnership between all three organisations; Barooga Aquatic Recreation Centre, Moira Shire Council and Surf Lifesaving Victoria who are involved in the Bush Nippers Program," Mr Brooks said.
‘This program has enormous broader community benefits, ranging from river safety education to making new friends."
Moira Shire chair of panel of administrators John Tanner has described the program as a massive success.
“This program not only imparts water safety skills but also promotes healthy living and emergency response in a fun, supportive way,” he said.
“It highlights our commitment to prioritising water safety within the community.”
Swim team leader Olivia Tsantarlis, who is from Melbourne, said that feedback from the attendees had been great.
“Everyone’s really enjoying it. The kids are raving about it,” she said.
“They’re excited to come back every day. They’re always having fun, have big smiles on their faces and it’s really great to see that they’re learning to stay safe on the water.”