Drowning remains a significant global issue, claiming more than 300,000 lives worldwide each year. That's why communities around the world marked World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, coming together under this year's theme: "Unite to Turn the Tide."
For Bass Coast Shire Council, the day was an opportunity to continue building momentum around one shared goal: ensuring more people can safely enjoy our beaches and return home safely to their families.
Bass Coast continues to provide local, state and increasingly national leadership in water safety policy, education and community engagement. At the centre of this work is the Bass Coast-Mornington Peninsula Cross-Council Water Safety Framework, a Victorian-first partnership bringing together Bass Coast Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, City of Casey, Cardinia Shire Council, City of Greater Dandenong, Life Saving Victoria and leisure providers.
As part of this year's observance, Council continued its partnership with multicultural community leaders and southeast metropolitan councils by supporting a World Drowning Prevention Day event at the Gurudwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND) in Officer.
The event brought together more than 60 community members and representatives from councils, government agencies, aquatic facilities and community organisations across Bass Coast, Mornington Peninsula, Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari spoke about the importance of collaboration in reducing drowning incidents and improving water safety outcomes.
"Local government has an important role to play in achieving Australia's goal of halving drowning deaths by 2030. We do this through supporting pools, swimming lessons, lifesaving clubs, lifeguard services and local risk planning. Water safety is everyone's responsibility, and preventing drowning requires all levels of government and community working together," Cr Tessari said.
