Christian and sister Charlotte braved the cold water at Williamstown beach to help launch the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program this week.
More than 7500 children enrolled in the learn-to-swim program last year.
Attending the launch were Commonwealth Games swimmer Sam Marshall and Sport and Recreation Minister Hugh Delahunty.
Mr Delahunty said this year’s program was expected to involve more than 130 instructors providing low-cost swimming lessons at 127 venues.
“Through the VICSWIM program, kids not only learn important survival skills but they also have the chance to make new friends and boost their health by getting more active more often, in and around water.”
Mr Delahunty announced $200,000 in funding for skateboarding, football, netball and cricket venues in Hobsons Bay.
The money will pay for a $70,000 upgrade to the Bryan Martyn Oval in Newport, a $90,000 playspace at AB Shaw Reserve, and $40,000 for a beginners’ section at Altona Meadows Skate Park.
Hobsons Bay council provided $180,000 towards the projects, while Newport Digman Cricket Club and Newport Power Junior Football and Netball Club pitched in $40,000 for Bryan Martyn Oval.
