The team at Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre have helped a dedicated group of over 20 members of the community in Liverpool aged 60 and over to build both critical lifesaving skills and connections to reduce isolation.

A successful three-week pilot of the Seniors Water Wellness Program, held on Friday mornings and supported by Royal Life Saving NSW has attracted strong demand from locals to make the program a community staple.

Wishy Murimba, Community Engagement Coordinator at Michael Wenden said:

“By providing older adults with the practical skills, knowledge and confidence they need to stay safe in the water, we are encouraging healthy aging and independence for all in the community.”

Strong partnerships supporting wellbeing in Liverpool

Royal Life Saving NSW instructors delivered practical in-water lifesaving skills training and CPR awareness education, equipping participants with valuable knowledge and skills that could help save lives in an emergency.

Ying Fan, Cultural Engagement Coordinator from Royal Life Saving Society said:

“By combining water safety education, physical activity and social connection, this important program is helping create a healthier, safer and more connected Liverpool.

“It has been wonderful to see participants embrace every session.”

Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre’s instructors led the aqua aerobics session, encouraging participants to improve their fitness, mobility and overall wellbeing through low-impact exercise in a supportive environment.

Alleviating loneliness and building capability in the community

Throughout the program, participants, including regulars Kamlawati, Munita, Saraswati, Mabel, Bijma and Dani had the opportunity to develop practical water safety skills and improve their physical health while building meaningful social connections with others.

Kamlawati Prasad, 74, said movement during the classes has helped them build strength, especially mobility in their shoulders.

Munita Naidu, 44, added: “I like the Seniors Water Wellness Program because it’s fun, low-impact and it helps me stay active while meeting others.” 

For Saraswati, Mabel Castineira and Dani Rodriguez, the class has enabled them to achieve improved fitness in their sixties.

“It’s allowed me to learn new skills,” commented Saraswati.

Beyond the educational and physical benefits, the program provided a welcoming space where older adults could strengthen their sense of belonging and continue participating confidently in community life.

The success of the Seniors Water Wellness Program demonstrates the value of strong partnerships between Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre and Royal Life Saving NSW in delivering accessible, community-focused initiatives that make a lasting impact.

About the Seniors Water Wellness Program

• Venue: Michael Wenden Aquatic Leisure Centre
• Location: Liverpool, NSW
• Partner organisation: Royal Life Saving NSW
• Who joins in: More than 20 community members aged 60+
• Program focus: Water safety, CPR awareness, aqua aerobics and social connection
• Community benefits: Improved fitness, mobility, confidence and water safety knowledge
• Health outcomes: Supports healthy ageing, independence and reduced social isolation
• Community impact: Creates opportunities for older adults to build friendships, learn new skills and remain active

To learn more, visit the Michael Wenden website here.