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This article was published on Monday, 26 October, 2015. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

GSCC and Aquamoves Supporting the Respect the River campaign

Posted on Monday 26th of October, 2015,

New research released by Royal Life Saving Society ‐ Australia shows almost 1,000 people have drowned in Australian rivers since 1 July 2002. Nationally over the past 13 years, 35 per cent of river drowning deaths are known to have involved alcohol. The new research also shows 68 people have drowned in the Murray River in the last 13 years, making the Murray the number one river drowning black spot in Australia.

In Victoria, rivers have claimed the lives of over 130 people since 1 July 2002. Rivers account for almost one quarter of all drowning deaths in Victoria (24 per cent) over this period and males account for 86 per cent of all river drowning victims in Victoria.

Royal Life Saving, with the support of the Federal Government, is addressing these tragic statistics through a national drowning prevention and public awareness campaign called "Respect the River".

Paul Shannon Government and Industry Relations, Life Saving Victoria says “Although our rivers are beautiful, more people drown in rivers than anywhere else. The dangers are often lurking below the surface, you simply can’t see ice cold water, snags like tree branches or strong currents but they can be lethal. We are urging Australians to be aware of these unique hazards and Respect the River.”

Aquamoves Coordinator Program and Education, Jackie Wilson says water safety awareness is vital to ensuring a decrease in drowning statistics.

“Swimming is so much a part of the Australian way of life, it is important that everyone has the opportunity to learn to swim so they can be safe around water, whether in a pool, rivers or sea,” said Ms Wilson.

“Aquamoves provides a variety of swimming programs for children and adults to develop water confidence and safety skills and they are designed for all levels of ability. We encourage people looking to improve their swimming skills to contact Aquamoves to see how we can assist.”

 For more information on the Respect the River campaign please visit www.royallifesaving.com.au

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