A water safety program that helps international students enjoy all that Tasmania has to offer has expanded into Launceston.
Delivered through a partnership with Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST), the University of Tasmania’s International Student Water Safety Program saw students – including 10 in Launceston – getting into the pool for a week of lessons with a dedicated instructor.
Head of student engagement Virginia Mahoney said the program was first run in 2024 to create awareness among international students of the importance of water safety, survival techniques and basic rescue skills.
“It has been fantastic to work with Surf Life Saving Tasmania to deliver this valuable program, and we’re really excited to be able to offer it in Launceston for the first time,” she said.
“It’s tailored for the students and provides the perfect opportunity to gain confidence and learn in a supportive environment. It’s been wonderful to see students making new friends through the course too.”
Nursing student Demi, who grew up in Nigeria, said the lessons had helped her overcome her fear of water. She now feels comfortable and able to float and swim.
“Before, I couldn’t see myself learning to swim because I was scared of the unknown and I didn’t know if the instructor would be patient. I knew it was going to take a lot of work because I’d never learned to swim.
“When the opportunity came from UTAS, it was much easier.”
Nadia Roulias, Community Programs Coordinator at SLST, said the program is designed to meet the unique needs of students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.
“Tasmania’s waterways are beautiful but can be unpredictable and dangerous if you don’t know how to stay safe,” Nadia said.
“This program is about giving international students the confidence, awareness, and practical skills they need to enjoy the water safely. We’ve tailored the content so it’s inclusive and accessible, no matter what a student’s previous experience with swimming might be.”
She added that the initiative is also about building stronger connections within the community. “Water safety is a shared responsibility, and by working with international students we’re helping them feel more at home and supported while studying in Tasmania.”
Image: International student Sangina, who is from Nepal, with Theogenes swimming instructor Jade Nichols and other members of the student swimming class in Launceston. Picture: Paul Scambler