Migrants and refugees are invited to take part in the upcoming On the Same Wave program to help reduce beach fatalities and incidents.
On the Same Wave program aims to help reduce beach incidents among the growing migrant and refugee population across Queensland by educating them on beach and water safety.
Bundaberg and District Neighbourhood Centre Multicultural program coordinator Praveen Mather said it would be the third time the program was held in the Bundaberg Region.
“Lot of migrants have limited or no exposure to beaches in their countries,” Praveen said.
“This lack of awareness on beach safety, stops them and their families (from taking) advantage of beaches here.
“This free program aims to educate migrants and refugees about beach safety tips, so, that they can use beaches safely and confidently.”
Praveen said the On the Same Wave program would cover information about flags, signs, sun safety and how to signal for help, followed by a practical program with activities such as beach safety, beach activities, water activities and rescues.
“These sessions help members of CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) communities to avoid beach fatalities and increase confidence to use the beaches in Australia,” Praveen said.
“The statistics around migrant drownings in Australia is concerning and we are doing our bit to try and minimise the risk of drowning in our region.”
Each year the program educates more than 15,000 people on how to stay safe on Queensland beaches.
“Beach life is a significant part of Australian culture,” Praveen said.
“Being a migrant parent, it is important to learn basic beach safety tips so that your children can learn to use beaches from you.”
On the Same Wave is jointly conducted by Surf Life Saving Queensland and Bundaberg and District Neighbourhood Centre and it will be held at Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club, Neilson Beach, Bargara, on Tuesday, 29 March.
To register or for more information phone Praveen on 4153 1614.
- Other news: Youth Week colour run to make a splash at Bargara
