Sikh Community’s Water Safety Program Honoured 

“We are honoured to receive the President’s Certificate from Life Saving Victoria for our Safely Engaging with Water Program. This award recognises our commitment to promoting water safety and saving lives by empowering our community with the knowledge and skills to stay safe in and around water.” 

Victoria’s lifesavers and aquatic industry professionals gathered this month to celebrate the outstanding contributions of Victoria’s water warriors at the annual Awards of Excellence. Among the many inspiring stories shared on the night, one in particular captured hearts and minds. 

The Sikh community of Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (Sikh Temple – Officer) was honoured with the President’s Certificate for their remarkable initiative, the Safely Engaging with Water Program. Born from a deep concern for the safety of multicultural communities following a tragic summer of drownings, the program was launched on International Drowning Prevention Day in July 2024. 

Led by Dr. Harpreet Singh Kandra, the initiative focuses on empowering adults, often overlooked in traditional swim programs, with the skills and confidence to enjoy water safely. Weekly swimming lessons, unlimited pool access, and water safety education have already reached over 230 participants from diverse backgrounds across Melbourne. 

What makes this program truly unique is its funding model. Costs are shared equally between participants, the local participating aquatic centre, and the Sikh community itself, ensuring affordability and sustainability. The results speak volumes: participants report dramatic improvements in swimming ability, confidence, and overall wellbeing. 
 
The Siri Guru Nanak Darbar, Officer group said it was a proud moment for the Sikh community. 

“We are honoured to receive the President’s Certificate from Life Saving Victoria for our Safely Engaging with Water Program. This award recognises our commitment to promoting water safety and saving lives by empowering our community with the knowledge and skills to stay safe in and around water. We look forward to collaborating with you to make drownings history.”  

This award is a celebration of what’s possible when community, compassion, and innovation come together. It’s a reminder that lifesaving is not just about pulling someone from the water, it’s about preventing them from ever being in danger in the first place. 

Congratulations to the Sikh community and everyone involved in this powerful movement for change.