Deniliquin Outdoor Pools president Brenda Norman said the initiative had 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," Ms Norman 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."
The program was supported by Murray Irrigation through its annual Learn to Swim sponsorship initiative.
MIL customer service team leader Jayne Crompton was poolside on Friday 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."
Ms Norman also paid tribute to the swimming instructors who volunteered their time in the pool, and to committee members for their‘behind the scenes’ efforts.
She thanked MIL for its funding support, Edward River Council for its assistance in organising use of the pool, the Deniliquin Swim Club for the use of its equipment, and other supporters including Deniliquin Rotary Club for cooking the barbecue.
Murray Irrigation's annual Learn to Swim sponsorship program is made possible through the support of its customers.
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