Living in a place like Dawesville means water is part of everyday life. The estuary, the ocean, the channels & the lakes shape the way people move, play and connect. But with all that beauty comes responsibility. Especially when it comes to water safety.

A recent near tragedy in the South West has reminded Western Australians just how quickly things can go wrong. When a family’s canoes capsized, a young boy was forced to swim an estimated four kilometres to reach help. His bravery saved lives, but the situation could easily have ended very differently.

Why Swimming Skills Matter More in Water-Based Communities

For communities surrounded by water, swimming isn’t just a recreational skill, it’s a life skill. Strong swimming ability gives children & adults the confidence to enjoy local waterways safely, but it also provides critical protection when the unexpected happens.

In areas like Dawesville, where families fish, paddle, crab, kayak & swim year-round, the risks are higher simply because people spend more time near the water. Even calm estuary conditions can change quickly with tides, wind or boat wash. Without basic swimming skills, a simple outing can become dangerous in seconds.

The Hidden Risks of Not Learning to Swim

Many people assume they’ll never be in a situation where swimming could save their life ... until they are. Capsized vessels, slips from jetties, unexpected currents & sudden weather changes are all common causes of water emergencies.

For children, the risks are even greater. Kids are naturally curious and in water-rich environments, that curiosity can lead them into situations they’re not prepared for. Without swimming skills, they have fewer options to keep themselves safe.

Building a Water-Safe Community

The Dawesy Hub encourages families to treat swimming lessons as essential, not optional. Learning to swim builds confidence, reduces fear & helps people of all ages enjoy the waterways that make Dawesville such a special place to live.

Community awareness, supervision and safe decision-making all play a part, but swimming skills remain the strongest defence against drowning. The recent South West incident is a powerful reminder that emergencies don’t wait for perfect conditions or perfect timing.

Looking After Each Other

The young boy who swam for help showed extraordinary courage, but no child should ever have to face that kind of challenge. By making swimming education a priority, the community can ensure that everyone, kids, teens & adults, has the skills they need to stay safe around the water.

In a place surrounded by waterways, learning to swim isn’t just about recreation. It’s about resilience, preparedness and looking after one another. The Dawesy Hub is committed to supporting a community where everyone can enjoy the water safely and confidently.