Local Learn to Swim Program hailed a success

21 January 2025

Front L-R: Learn to Swim students Charlie Burge, Lincoln Arthur, Timothy Burge Archer Ladson and Bronte Ladson.

Back L-R: Program volunteers Deb Gazarra, John Arthur and Karen Bond with Murray Irrigation Customer Service Team Leader Jayne Crompton.

Deniliquin Outdoor Pools wrapped up its Town Intensive Learn to Swim Program at the Deniliquin Swim Centre last Friday.

A total 145 local children participated in the 10-day swim program, which was supported by Murray Irrigation through the company's annual Learn to Swim Sponsorship initiative.

Deniliquin Outdoor Pools President, Brenda Norman, said the initiative has been incredibly well-received by the community, earning itself a 2025 Edward River Council Australia Day Award nomination in the Community Event/Initiative of the Year category.

"We had a fantastic community response, with participation levels going well beyond our initial expectation," Brenda said.

"The positive feedback we have received from local parents, children and residents has been overwhelming.

"The success of this program has made a significant impact, not only in teaching vital water safety skills to our young people, but also in fostering a sense of connection and community spirit."

Murray Irrigation Customer Service Team Leader, Jayne Crompton, was poolside to present the beaming children with their certificates of completion.

"We’re proud to assist clubs and schools to teach children to swim, which is such an essential life skill," she said.

"Congratulations to all the children who are receiving their certificates today."

Murray Irrigation's Jayne Crompton was poolside to present the swim students with their certificates of completion.

Brenda also paid tribute to the swimming instructors who volunteered their time in the pool, and to committee members, whose behind the scenes efforts helped ensure success of the program.

In addition, she extended her thanks to Murray Irrigation for its funding support, together with Edward River Council for its assistance in organising use of the pool, the Deniliquin Swim Club for the use of its equipment, Deniliquin Hyundai, who supplied sausages (expertly cooked up by the Deniliquin Rotary Club) for the hungry young swimmers to feast on, and other sponsors 3G Printing, Druitt Earthworks and Purtill Group.

Murray Irrigation's annual Learn to Swim Sponsorship Program is made possible through the support of our customers.