Children across Mandurah are splashing about again, taking to the pools to restart swimming lessons after COVID-19 shut down programs across the country for three months.
Swimming lessons resumed at the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre on June 15, following the state government's recent phase three easing of restrictions.
Almost 1000 Mandurah locals have jumped back in the water since then.
Mandurah Swim School supervisor, Lindsay Leather, said it was great to see so many people "back on pool deck".
"We've had over 900 students return this week in our infant lessons, learn to swim and squads, as well as private lessons.
"The teachers are really happy and excited to be back in the pool and the kids are super happy to be back in lessons.
"Our aqua classes are also back in full swing and the swimming clubs all now training as well.
"We have made some adjustments to the entry procedure and have increased cleaning of equipment while also introducing sign in sheets at reception."
It is estimated the shutdown of WA's aquatic industry cost up to $76 million dollars in lost revenue.
A majority of the state's 4,150 pool lifeguards, pool operators and swim instructors were left unemployed.
More than 50 per cent of those staff were employed on a casual basis and aged between 18 and 24 years old.
It is also predicted up to 50,000 children may have missed out on taking part in swimming lessons during the shutdown.
Royal Life Saving WA Swimming and Water Safety Education senior manager, Trent Hotchkin, said getting children back in the pool as soon as possible was extremely important.
While it is a common misconception in the community that drowning deaths only occur in summer, around one third of drowning deaths happen in autumn and winter across Australia.
"Learning to swim and survive is a vital life skill that all West Australian children need to safely participate on, in and around water," Mr Hotchkin said.
"Building swimming and water safety skills in young children is vital work and the single most important investment we can make as a community to prevent drowning."
