The event will focus on drowning prevention activities for rivers, lakes, dams and other inland waterways across the state.
The forum will bring together government agencies, land and waterway managers, emergency services, the aquatic industry and industry sectors such as tourism, to address this important issue, particularly for Victoria’s rural and regional communities.
Throughout the day, attendees will hear from a diverse range of presenters and panellists, with sessions covering coronial insights, governance and partnerships, local water safety planning, community behaviour change, emergency response, data-informed decision-making and practical case studies from across Victoria and interstate.
Interactive workshops will also focus on turning shared ideas into co-ordinated action at a local and regional level.
A third (33 per cent) of all fatal drowning incidents this financial year so far have occurred at inland waterways.
This trend remains stubbornly high across the medium and long term, requiring a targeted and collaborative approach.
Life Saving Victoria general manager aquatic capability Andy Dennis said the Inland Waterways Forum was an opportunity to find solutions to inland waterway drownings and injuries.
“It’s vital we work to address the many and varied factors that can contribute to drowning fatalities on inland waterways,” Mr Dennis said.
“This forum is about aligning the right people around the table, learning from evidence and lived experience and agreeing on practical actions that can reduce risk in local communities.”
The forum will run at the Dungala Function Centre, 69 Dungala Way, Moama, on Thursday, May 21.
Please note the change of venue for the Inland Waterways Forum on May 21, as first announced.
Attendance is free, but registration is required at https://training.lsv.com.au/dashboard/profdev
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