Brewarrina Shire Council is continuing its commitment to building real‑life skills for young people with the launch of a free comprehensive School Holiday Bronze Medallion Training Program for youth, delivered in partnership with Dubbo First Aid and Lifeguard Training.

The Royal Life Saving NSW accredited Bronze Medallion provides nationally recognised training in CPR, emergency response, water rescues, spinal management and essential survival techniques. Participants complete both online learning and practical assessments, gaining the core competencies required for safe aquatic supervision and lifeguard roles.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said the program reflects Council’s focus on meaningful, future‑building opportunities for young people.

“Throughout 2026 we’ve invested in programs that give our young people real‑world skills and career opportunities they can carry into adulthood,” Mr Kirby said.

“Our driving school and the hair and barber workshop showed just how much confidence and pride comes from learning practical skills. This accredited lifeguard training builds on that success.”

Mr Kirby said the Bronze Medallion program is particularly valuable in a remote community where water safety and employment pathways intersect, especially given the proven success of youth employment at the Brewarrina Pool.

“Programs like this aren’t just about filling the school holidays, they’re about opening doors,” he said.

“This training gives young people qualifications they can use anywhere, and it strengthens safety skills across our whole community. It’s exactly the kind of opportunity we want to keep creating.

“We’ve already seen the success of youth employment at the Brewarrina Pool over previous summers. Local young people stepped into lifeguarding and kiosk roles with maturity, responsibility and pride. That model worked because our pool contractor actively supported youth employment and created a safe, structured environment for them to thrive.

“This new program strengthens that pathway even further and brings the accreditation needed for these roles right here to Brewarrina.”

Council is proud to continue expanding practical, skill‑building initiatives for Brewarrina’s youth.

“This is about investing in our young people and giving them every chance to succeed. We’re excited to see local participants take this next step,” concluded Mr Kirby.

The Brewarrina Memorial Pool is set to open for the summer season on Thursday October 1, 2026. Entry remains free, all year round.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Accredited Bronze Medallion

The course combines online learning with a full practical lifesaving and swimming course covering CPR, safe use of an AED, aquatic rescue techniques, timed swimming components, spinal injury management and survival skills. Participants demonstrate their ability to recognise emergencies, respond appropriately and carry out safe, effective rescues in a range of controlled scenarios.

Pre‑Course Requirements

Online learning modules must be completed before attending practical sessions (approx. three hours).

What to Bring

Identification, pen, long‑sleeve shirt and long pants for in‑water assessments, swimwear, towel, goggles, plastic bag for wet clothing.

REGISTRATION

To register for the School Holiday Accredited Lifeguard Training Program, contact Dubbo First Aid and Lifeguard Training: 0438 698 360