By Lucy Waldron
A recent non-fatal incident at Leslie Dam has sparked renewed calls for water safety awareness as the Southern Downs heads into the warmer months.
The National Drowning Report 2024, published by Royal Life Saving Australia in August found there were 323 drowning deaths over the past 12 months, 16 per cent higher than the ten-year average of 278.
This troubling rise has prompted water safety advocates and officials to emphasise the importance of water awareness, especially in regional and migrant communities.
Royal Life Saving Australia CEO Justin Scarr stressed the urgency of investing in community resilience to prevent drowning and strengthen swimming and water safety skills for both children and adults.
“The Report is a reminder that many Australians now lack the skills to swim, float or stay safe in the water,” Mr Scarr said.
“It’s a reminder that drowning prevention starts at home, in schools and at local pools. We must ensure no child or adult misses out on learning to swim, and that all Australians have access to a safe place to swim, starting with a great local swimming pool.”
The report found 92 adults aged 65 or older drowned, accounting for 28 per cent of total deaths and marking the highest number ever recorded for this age group.
Fifteen children under five drowned – a 25 per cent decrease compared to the 10-year average.
A quarter of the victims were born overseas, with the largest representation from India, China, Nepal, and the UK.
Drowning rates were significantly higher in regional and disadvantaged areas, particularly among children aged 5 to 14 years.
And coastal locations accounted for 46 per cent of drowning deaths, with beaches being the most dangerous spot, followed by inland waterways at 34 per cent.
Minister for Aged Care and Sport Anika Wells MP affirmed the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting organisations like Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia in raising water safety awareness.
“With some simple precautions, we can all enjoy the water safely,“ Minister Wells said.
“Always supervise children around water, learn swimming, water safety, and lifesaving skills, wear a lifejacket when boating, and always swim between the red and yellow flags.“
Both Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia encourage Australians to:
Supervise children at all times around water.
Learn essential swimming, water safety, and lifesaving skills.
Wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing, or paddling.
Swim at patrolled beaches and stay between the red and yellow flags.
Avoid alcohol and drugs around water.
Check weather forecasts and water conditions before heading out.
With summer just around the corner, now is the time to ensure safety in, on, and around the water, making it enjoyable for everyone.
