We're partnering up with Lifesaving Victoria to offer Grey Medallion, a 6 week water safety course for over 55's.

Grey Medallion aims to tackle the increase in drowning deaths of people aged over 60 and empower them to enjoy aquatic activities safely and confidently.

The program provides adults with personal survival techniques, improved swimming skills, knowledge to deal with emergency situations and a thorough understanding of water safety. The program is inclusive of all abilities, including non-swimmers.

Why enrol?

Because being safe around the water is an essential life skill, and it’s never too late to learn!

• In Victoria, people aged 45 to 64 had the highest age-specific fatal drowning rate from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018.
• From 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018 there was a 35% increase in the fatal drowning rate of adults aged 45 to 64 in Victoria.
• In 2017-2018, the 65-74 years age group recorded the highest number of drowning deaths at ocean/harbour locations nationally, an increase of 50% on the 10 year average.
• Rivers, creeks and streams were the leading location for drowning nationally among the 65-74 age group in 2017/18, accounting for 29% of all deaths.
• LSV have targeted the City of Yarra to implement drowning prevention strategies. Adults aged 65+ represent 23.25% of drowning deaths in metropolitan Melbourne.

So if you want to find a new active hobby, plan on taking your grandchildren to the pool, going on holiday somewhere tropical or just want to learn something new, then this is the course for you.

What's included?

Participants will get six 2 hour sessions run weekly, a participant workbook and pack, and the company of many like-minded community members. The program will cover:

• Emergency care: 1 hour face to face learning on the elements of water safety knowledge, resuscitation and emergency care.
• Aquatic skills: 1 hour of in water coaching on survival skills, swimming and stroke improvement and aquatic exercise.
• CPR information and practical training for all participants.
• Free entry for a swim, spa and sauna during your visit.
• 25% off our Stroke Improvement Courses.
• Snacks: light refreshments provided for all participants.

Date and time

The 6-week course will run every Thursday from 10:30am to 12:30pm from 7 March to 11 April.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the six week course is $45.

How do I book?

Call 9205 5522 or 9205 5032 or pop into reception and fill out an enrolment form, make the payment and you’re ready to go!

Further information

For further information please chat to our friendly customer service staff or send us an email at yarraleisure@yarracity.vic.gov.au.