Twenty-nine local young people are stronger, more skilful swimmers thanks to Ararat Rural City Council's annual Summer Intensive Swim Program.
Delivered at the Lake Bolac and Willaura outdoor pools during the recent school holidays, the intensive program provided participants with regular, structured swimming lessons over a short period of time.
This format allowed children to build skills quickly and confidently, from water familiarisation and safety for younger participants through to survival skills, stroke technique and endurance for older age groups.
Mayor Councillor Bob Sanders thanked local families for supporting the important initiative, which helps improve water safety skills for young people across the municipality.
"These programs are always successful because the kids are taught vital swimming skills in their familiar pool environment, and the intensive format really helps those skills stick," Cr Sanders said.
"Thank you to the instructors and pool staff at our wonderful pools for running such a successful program again this year. It's a good feeling to know we have a cohort of graduates who are now more confident and capable in the water."
