Published Fri, 9 Jan 2026
With swim safety top of mind for families, especially during the summer season, there is one important message people of all ages can remember while in the water: float to survive.
Recently, from 1 to 14 December, this vital message was introduced in every Learn to Swim class across our aquatic centres. During this time, children learned just how important it is to stay calm, control their breathing, and float to survive.
With more than 5,000 participants attending Learn to Swim lessons across our pools throughout the campaign period, this life-saving message reached thousands of swimmers and their families.
The campaign is led by Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins, Bondi’s Head Lifeguard and star of Bondi Rescue. In December, Bruce visited Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre during our Summer Open Day to share his expertise and demonstrate the importance of the Float to Survive technique - a program focused on one of the most critical survival skills.
Watch below to see Hoppo in action at our Open Day, sharing this life-saving message and demonstrating how to float to survive.
Learning to swim is important at any time of year. Our curriculum focuses on both effective swimming techniques and essential water survival skills and runs for 48 weeks of the year, ensuring this vital life skill can be learned almost year-round. We offer lessons for all ages, from as young as 3 months through to adults.
