We are proud to announce that WaterMarc Banyule’s Women’s Only Slide Nights ongoing program has been selected as a finalist for the Active Recreation Initiative of the Year at the 2022 Victorian Sport Awards (VSAs). This is an exceptional accomplishment and reflects the significant contribution that WaterMarc has made to Victorian sport and leisure.
The Women’s Only Slide Nights initiative was developed in response to the barriers women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds face regarding water participation. WaterMarc, in partnership with Banyule City Council’s Youth Service team, provides a safe and welcoming environment for female participants.
The facilities were open after hours, and windows were covered to ensure privacy, while only female staff were present. The initiative enabled over 500 participants to engage in water activities throughout 2022, including mothers who previously could not assist their children in swimming lessons. An impressive 81% of survey respondents said they participated in the event because they felt safer than usual.
“We are incredibly honoured to have our Women’s Only Slide Nights initiative named as a Finalist for the Active Recreation Initiative of the Year at the 2022 VSAs. The program is an ongoing success that we are deeply proud of. I extend my gratitude to our remarkable team here at WaterMarc and the continued support from the Banyule City Council’s Youth Service team,” said Wes Hurrey, Venue Manager at WaterMarc.
This recognition by the VSAs is a testament to the dedication and commitment of WaterMarc to providing safe and inclusive recreational opportunities for all community members.
The VSAs will take place on the 7th of June, 2023, at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.
For more information, visit the VICSPORT website here or WaterMarc’s website here.
