AFTER six men drowned in three days during the holiday period across NSW, Orange Bush Nippers say water training can make a crucial difference.
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Run by volunteers, Nippers has taught children aged 3-16 years about water safety, survival swimming, water rescue and first aid since the club was established in 2007.
Some of the 80 registered junior members help out at triathlon competitions and others have gone on to become lifeguards at Orange Aquatic Centre.
Councillor Jason Hamling donated $500 out of his annual allocation to fund its operations and committee member Mark Hodges was grateful for the money.
“We’ll be using the money to buy safety gear and repair the boards, they’re great fun,” he said.
Mr Hodges said training build children’s confidence.
“Inland waters and swimming pools are the highest contributors to drownings,” he said.
“We always ask them what hazards can they spot and what hazards are at home – by the end of the season, they’re completely different kids.”
