Royal Life Saving Queensland launches Virtual First Aid courses.

A virtual first aid course is a course completed entirely online and is ideal for those in regional or remote locations that find it difficulty to attend face-to-face courses in metro locations. This ground breaking method merges interactive, self-paced online learning with webinar-style instruction and practical evaluations guided by certified training experts. Before your online session, we will post you a training kit, which including a training manikin and other vital resources so you can complete the course.

The Virtual First Aid course is a little more expensive than a regular first aid course at $310.00, however this cost includes a resource kit (which you keep) and it can be completed without having to attend one of our usual training locations.

Course provided by Royal Life Saving Training RTO 5431. Upon successful completion of this course, a Statement of Attainment in the following units of competence is issued:
HLTAID009 – Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation
HLTAID010 – Provide basic emergency life support
HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid

Interested parties are invited to apply for Queensland-first Aquatic Industry Safety Committee

Royal Life Saving Queensland (RLSQ) are inviting key stakeholders who have capacity and capability in safety in the Queensland aquatic industry to establish a Queensland Aquatic Industry Safety Committee, a key outcome of the South East Queensland Water Safety Strategy 2023-27 (Link). This committee aims to enhance aquatic industry safety across Queensland and drive collaboration within the aquatic industry. Building communities of practice around safety and compliance in the aquatic industry.

This important initiative is in response to calls for this to occur in the South East Queensland forum, which was a forum of close to 200 industry experts on drowning prevention and water safety. The South East Queensland Water Safety Strategy 2023-27, a comprehensive plan developed by Royal Life Saving Queensland, identified the need for a dedicated committee to address safety challenges and opportunities in the aquatic industry.

The committee is intended to consist of representatives from key stakeholders including aquatic facility owners & operators, local government leaders, private agencies, and community groups, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing aquatic industry safety issues.

“We know that the aquatic industry provides significant benefits to the community but recognise there are some gaps we need to address. The establishment of the Queensland Aquatic Industry Safety Committee marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to improve the consistency of safety standards in the aquatic industry.” said Paul Barry, Executive Director of Royal Life Saving Queensland.

“We know that the aquatic industry provides significant benefits to the community and want to ensure we continue to do this at the best possible safety standard available.” Said Mr Barry.

Tim Goward, Manager Major Venues – City of Gold Coast, emphasised the importance of a high level of safety and compliance at aquatic facilities and welcomes the approach by Royal Life Saving Society – Queensland in bringing the industry together to improve safety. 

Mr Goward highlighted the positive impact of aquatic facility safety assessments conducted as part of the strategy. He remarked, “The safety of aquatic users is paramount and should be a high priority for all aquatic facilities and managers. This committee will be a great avenue for the industry to collectively improve by sharing valuable insight, recommendations, learnings and best practice.”

Royal Life Saving is extending an invitation to all agencies, organisations, and individuals in the Queensland aquatic industry who are interested in bettering aquatic industry standards and safety. To express an interest in attending, please complete the Expression of Interest form (Link) and return by COB Monday, 13 May 2024.

Resources:

https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/74722/Water-Safety-Strategy-Final.pdf

Media and Committee Contacts

Nikki Thornhill

State Manager Royal Life Saving Society – Queensland

On 22nd April, the Pool Lifeguard Challenge returned for its second year, serving as a stage for teams to showcase their abilities and team work. Diverse participants, with a wide range of expertise, agility, and collaboration, highlighting their unwavering dedication to aquatic safety across South East Queensland.

The success of these events was a testament to the dedicated participation and support from all involved. The enthusiasm and positive outcomes from these events further underscored our collective mission to enhance safety practices and knowledge-sharing in water related activities.

As we commemorate these achievements, we eagerly anticipate more opportunities ahead to fortify our commitment to aquatic safety.

The top three results are as follows:

First Place: Gold Coast
Second Place: Sleeman Team 2
Third Place: Sleeman Team 1
Most Valuable Competitor: Brenden Elliott (Gold Coast)

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland extends gratitude to Sleeman Sports Complex for providing the event venue and support staff, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia for offering support staff and competitor equipment kits, and the staff from Royal Life Saving Society Queensland who assisted with event officiating and adjudication.

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland would also like to acknowledge the following individuals who contributed to the event’s success:

Brooke Cherfils
RLSSQ Staff
and, of course, all the competitors

Ipswich Water STAARS Shine

Ipswich City Council has partnered with the Royal Life Saving Queensland’s Water STAARS (Support to Access Recreational Spaces) Program, to encourage people with disabilities to develop their water skills.

“The classes were a mixture of water activities and fun lagoon deck games for those involved and there was great feedback from the seven participants in this first course,” Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said.

Our SEAL program identified there was a gap in our water education programs and this course has allowed a new group of Ipswich citizens to participate in a safe, supportive and educational environment with a focus on real life skills that many of us take for granted.

“Getting enquiries from the community while the event was being held just goes to show what a great environment the Royal Life Saving Queensland’s qualified disability instructors provide. Everyone could see that everyone was being engaged and participating.”

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Senior Education Officer Beverley Newton praised council’s involvement in the program.

“It was a great group over the four weeks and every participant came back each week and you can tell they were enjoying it as much as we do teaching. I hope to do this again with council, it is a really valuablepartnership,” Ms Newton said.

“The program focuses on water safety, becoming more comfortable around water and giving people the confidence to participate in water activities with their friends and family.”

The Water STAARS (Support To Access Aquatic Recreational Spaces) Program is designed to support people with disabilities to feel confident and empowered to acces the water safely. Participants engage in a range of exciting and educational activities with a focus on sun safety and signage, personal water safety and resuce techniques.

Council has already begunm the process for a new program later this year and Ms Cooper encouraged parents, guardians and carers with questions to reach out to council directlyto discuss any questions or requests regarding the Water STAARS Program.

The newly develop Royal Life Saving Pool Plant Operations Couse has now been released and is renamed to the Aquatic Technical Operator, to align with other states. The course is an entirely new course with different content to the previous course. It contains three modules (parts):

Part 1: Work Health & Safety
Part 2: Water Quality & Maintenance
Part 3: Workplace Activities

The course is issued under the Skillset SISSS00131, which is not equivalent to the former course.

The next course is on 26 & 27 March 2024 and enrolments can be completed at our training website.

Enduring partnership between RLSSQ and QFES

RLSSQ was recently honoured to attend the QFES Partnership Celebration event, celebrating a 10-year partnership with QFES (now transitioning to QPS). Along with PCYC and Surf Life Saving Queensland, RLSSQ was presented with Challenge Coins to celebrate the decade-long relationship.

Challenge coins are emblematic tokens deeply rooted in military tradition, recognised for their significance and camaraderie. Originating from World War 1, these coins were initially used to identify soldiers from different units. Over time, challenge coins evolved into symbols of unity, belonging, and shared experiences among military personnel.

The coins are typically presented to members for exceptional service, or achievements, or as tokens of appreciation and serve as symbols of honour, loyalty, and mutual respect. The tradition of carrying and exchanging challenge coins fosters bonds among individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in shared endeavours.

In this spirit, the decade-long partnership between QFES and RLSSQ has delivered significant services to the Queensland community in water safety and community programs. QFES-funded RLSSQ programs have helped target some of Queensland’s most marginal communities including Indigenous, disability and migrant groups – delivering water safety and Learn to Swim programs to prevent drowning.

QFES has also provided funding for the valuable work of our volunteers who conduct patrols and water safety programs for RLSSQ-patrolled beaches. RLSSQ extends it’s sincere gratitude and recognition to QFES for it’s continued support and contribution to our mission to prevent fatal drowning in Queensland.

Here’s to another decade of a great partnership in the future.

Register today for our FREE School Holiday Program: NextGen Lifesavers

Attention all teenagers! Are you interested in learning lifesaving skills that could make a real difference in emergencies?

Whether you’re a beginner or have some prior experience, NextGen Lifesavers is tailored to give you an introduction to basic water safety and aquatic lifesaving techniquers.

Our experienced instructors will guide you through hands-on exercises and simulations in a fun and active format.

At this special introductory program, you will learn:

• Personal survival skills
• Rescue techniques
• CPR Awareness (DRSABCD technique)

One session only, don’t miss out!

Date: Monday, 8 April 2024
Time: 10am-1pm
Location: Cleveland Aquatic Centre, 22 Russell Street, Cleveland

This event is open to 12-17 years*, and is free of charge.

*All 12-14-year-old participants must be accompanied by a parent or carer for the duration of the event. Free pool admission for parents and carers.

You must register to attend. Reserve your spot today by submitting the form.

Water safety is a crucial aspect of enjoying our natural resources, yet it remains a significant concern for communities worldwide.

As we strive to assist Queensland communities in preventing drowning, we invite you to join us in supporting the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland (RLSSQ) Foundation, dedicated to promoting water safety awareness and education.

Every year, Queensland lives are affected by water-related accidents and drownings, many of which could have been prevented through proper education and awareness. With your support, we can make a meaningful impact by:

• Educating Communities: Your donation will enable RLSSQ deliver educational and community programs that teach essential water safety skills to individuals of all ages throughout Queensland. From basic swimming techniques to understanding the dangers of all waterways, our programs empower people to make informed decisions around water.
  
• Providing Resources: Your contribution helps us distribute life-saving educational materials and programs delivered by professional trainers to communities in need, including state-wide school curriculum programs and community-based programs for indigenous and disabled persons. These resources can make all the difference in ensuring individuals are adequately prepared and protected when near bodies of water.
  
• Advocating For Change: By supporting the RLSSQ Foundation, you help us become an advocate for government policies, education and regulations that prioritise water safety. Together, we can work towards developing safety measures and standards that protect swimmers, boaters, and recreational enthusiasts.

Your donation, no matter the size, will assist Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Foundation to reach more individuals and communities with life-saving water safety initiatives.

Ways to donate

1. Pay via bank deposit using the details below:

• Please add a payment reference: *your name
• Please remember to send us an email and let us know your details so we can send you a receipt

2. Pay via credit card online
Please click on the “GiveNow” logo below to make a secure online payment.

3. How to bequeath a gift to the RLSSQ Foundation
Please read this information flyer with details on how to include a gift in your will:

4. Pay by cheque or money order
Download a printable donation form, write a cheque payable to ‘Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Inc’ and send it by post:

The Treasurer
Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Inc
PO Box 1093
CAPALABA QLD 4157

5. Giving by phone
We are always happy to discuss your gift and what you would like to support. Call us on +61 3823 2823 Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (AEST)

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that everyone has the knowledge and resources they need to enjoy water activities safely. Thank you for your support and commitment to promoting water safety in our community.

The Queensland Primary School Pool Life Saving Championships are back and being held on Sunday 9 June 2024, at the Sunshine Coast Grammar Aquatic Centre.

📅 Sunday 9 June 2024
🕒 Primary Students: 1.00pm (Warm up), 1.30pm (Start)
💲 $10 per competitor (unlimited number of events)

The event allows schools that undertake programs such as Swim and Survive to give students a sporting alternative.

The Championship for the Primary School students will include age-appropriate swim racing and rescue events, such as the

• 8m Line Throw
• 50m Rescue Race
• 100m Individual Life Saving Race and more.

The Championships are being hosted by the Sunshine Coast Grammar Pool Lifesaving Club, which is affiliated with Royal Life Saving.

The Championships are open to any school student. Entries close WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE 2024

Try Pool Lifesaving Today!

In early December 2023, Perth played host to a gathering of over 700 delegates from 50 countries at the World Confernece on Drowning Prevention. Hosted by the International Life Saving Federation, this event served as a pivotal moment, drawing the worlds attention to the urgent need for drowning prevention and water safety initiatives.

The conference was a melting pot of ideas, research, and actions, fostering an environment where experts in drowning prevention, lifesaving, and water safety collaborated to shape global strategy. This collaborative effort highlights the shared commitment to addressing the challenges posed by drowning.

Delegates we treated to an enriching experience with field trips, workshops, and research opportunities. These activities allowed participants to test, measure, and reflect on the impact of their efforts. The conference featured specialised streams covering policy, research, prevention efforts, rescue and disaster preparation, emergency response and advocacy.

The conference provided a platform for the exchange of vast knowledge and experiences. Attendees left empowered, armed with insights and strategies to bolster drowning prevention efforts globally, nationally, and locally. The collaborative spirit of the conference underscored the collective determination to promote water safety and drowning prevention on a global scale.

Noteworthy Presentations

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland State Manager Education & Training, Nikki Thornhill, made a significant impact during her presentation and comprehensive discussion on the critical initiative of Reducing Migrant Risk of Drowning in Queensland through tailored programs:

• Highlighted the importance of developing specialized programs addressing specific risks faced by migrants in aquatic environments.
  
• Emphasized the need for targeted educational strategies and innovative approaches to minimize drowning incidents among migrant communities.
  
• Showcased proactive measures taken by the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland to enhance water safety for all individuals.
  
• Nikki’s passionate commitment resonated, inspiring action and fostering awareness among attendees.

Royal Life Saving Society – Australia National Medical Advisor, Emeritus Prof. John Pearn AO RFD, delivered a compelling analysis on the significant impact of legislation in preventing pool drownings, particularly among pre-school aged children:

• Prof. Pearn’s research spanned thirty years and revealed a remarkable 40% reduction in domestic drownings in the pre-school aged group due to safety legislation.
  
• Emphasized the crucial role legislation plays as an effective preventive measure, reducing child fatalities and long-term disabilities when monitored and enforced.

Additionally, Prof. Pearn eloquently addressed the ethical complexities intertwined with lifesaving endeavors:

• Highlighted fundamental principles guiding decision-making in drowning scenarios: autonomy, beneficence, and justice.
  
• Expanded the discussion to ethical considerations in sudden emergencies, emphasizing the importance of empowerment and informed choices in the face of risk.
  
• Shed light on moral obligations, the psychological impact of unsuccessful rescues, and the complexities when rescuers become victims, offering nuanced understanding of the ethical dimensions inherent in lifesaving efforts.

Looking Ahead: The Perth 2023 conference was not just a moment in time but a catalyst for ongoing efforts. The insights gained and strategies outlined will continue to shape our approach to drowning prevention and water safety. As we move forward, let us remain commited to the shared goal of making aquatic environments safer for all.