For generations, school swimming carnivals have been a cherished tradition in Australia, bringing students together to celebrate fitness, competition, and water safety. However, this once-iconic event is fading, with many schools abandoning or limiting participation in these carnivals. According to research by Royal Life Saving Australia, one in four schools has completely dropped the annual swimming carnival, while many others restrict it to competitive swimmers. Even in schools that continue the tradition, only50% of eligible students participate.
This trend is raising serious concerns about water safety and drowning risks.Dr. Justin Scarr, CEO of Royal Life Saving Australia, warns that the decline of swimming carnivals and school swimming lessons puts thousands of children at risk.
“We risk creating a generation with extremely poor swimming skills,” he said.
This shift raises concerns about water safety, with experts warning of a generation at greater risk of drowning due to fewer school-based swimming lessons.
Statistics provided by Y NSW (YMCA)- Declining participation:
- Primary schools: Only 27% make carnivals mandatory.
- High schools: Just 40% require participation.
Y NSW’s manager of sport and recreation Kristen James has seen a drop in swimming lessons, particularly among older primary students. Without regular lessons, kids may lack the skills to stay safe in the water.
“You’ll see a massive influx of people at the pool on hot days, but they’re not continuously upskilling to keep themselves safe in the water.” she said
While swimming carnivals may no longer be the cultural staple they once were, their decline should not mean the end of swimming education. If we allow this trend to continue, we risk raising a generation unprepared for the dangers of water,a significant risk in a country surrounded by beaches, rivers, and pools.
Is it time to say goodbye to school swimming carnivals? Or do they still hold an important place in Aussie culture? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments!
Read more :
Sydney Morning Herald: https://bit.ly/41BG63i
The Age : https://bit.ly/4kD3p5u
Briabane Times: https://bit.ly/4ifoWQ5
WA Today: https://bit.ly/3FQFrn6
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