| Khairil Hassan |
A COHORT of 22 participants, comprising 14 Bruneians and eight foreign participants, are now internationally accredited swimming teachers following the completion of two AUSTSWIM courses organised by the Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) with support from the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam from November 17-24.
The Acting High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Leah Mottram presented the certificates during the closing ceremony at the Physical Education Room of the International School Brunei yesterday.
They have joined a global network of 33,500 swimming teachers accredited by AUSTSWIM. The courses were conducted by Australian AUSTSWIM Presenter Lyn McDermott.
“Learning to swim is a vital part of Australian life,” said Leah Mottram.
“I am pleased that the high commission has been able to support this partnership between AUSTSWIM and BASA and look forward to seeing more Bruneians safely and confidently participating in one of Australia’s favourite pastimes.”
McDermott, who has worked in the industry for over 30 years, including at the Australian Institute of Sport, said, “I have really enjoyed my time in Brunei and am pleased that they have had the opportunity to join AUSTSWIM’s global vision, the safer enjoyment of aquatic environments. I am honoured to be part of their journey and wish them the very best for their futures. AUSTSWIM is Australia’s national organisation for the teaching of swimming and water safety. Their accreditation is now Australia’s industry standard for swimming and water safety teachers.”
AUSTSWIM Chief Executive Officer Carl Partridge said that AUSTSWIM felt privileged to be involved.
“AUSTSWIM has a fine reputation for improving the safety and well-being of others in and around water, and helping them also achieve success in aquatic sports.” he said. “I congratulate BASA and in doing so the Australian High Commission for their generous and far-sighted support.”
Honorary Secretary of BASA Ang Beng Siong has commenced his training to become an AUSTSWIM Presenter and will be able to continue providing AUSTSWIM-accredited training to swimming and water safety coaches in Brunei once he has completed the accreditation process.
“I am delighted to take up this opportunity to be an AUSTSWIM Presenter. This will be invaluable in further developing the sport of swimming as BASA works towards opening Brunei’s first Swim Academy in early 2019,” he said.