Boosting Aquatic Access and Inclusion with the CBP 2025 Grant

Royal Life Saving NSW (RLSNSW) is excited to announce that our application to the Community Building Partnerships (CBP) Grant Program 2025 has been successful. This funding will support the purchase of Platypus Pool Steps from Para Mobility for the Denistone East Aquatic Academy.

The cheque, proudly presented by Jordan Lane MP, Member for Ryde, marks the beginning of an important project to make aquatic activity more inclusive and accessible for everyone in our community.

Why the Platypus Pool Steps Matter

For many people, entering and exiting a pool can be a barrier. Traditional ladders are challenging for:

• Older adults and seniors

• Children and young learners

• People with disability or limited mobility

• Expectant mothers

• Anyone uncomfortable with vertical ladders

  
  

The Platypus Pool Steps are designed with wide, non-slip treads and sturdy stainless-steel handrails, offering a safe and supportive way for all swimmers to access the water. Their durable, high-quality construction means they’ll provide long-term benefits to the community.

Who Will Benefit

The Denistone East Aquatic Academy is home to a wide range of programs including learn to swim lessons, physiotherapy sessions, and inclusive aquatic programs. Groups such as Rainbow Club and Giant Steps already use the facility, but some participants currently face challenges with pool access.

By adding these new steps, RLSNSW will ensure greater participation and inclusion, particularly for people with disability and older adults who are at higher risk of drowning. This aligns directly with our mission to create safer communities through drowning prevention and water safety education.

Delivering Lasting Impact

With this upgrade, the Academy will be able to:

• Increase participation in swimming and water safety programs.

• Support rehabilitation and therapeutic aquatic activities.

• Provide a more inclusive environment for all members of the community.

• Build water confidence and safety skills among groups who are often excluded from aquatic activity.

  
  

The project will commence in September 2025 and be completed by June 2026, with RLSNSW contributing funds alongside the CBP grant to cover installation.

We sincerely thank the NSW Government and Jordan Lane MP for supporting this project through the Community Building Partnerships Program. Their commitment ensures that vital community facilities like Denistone East Aquatic Academy remain inclusive and accessible to all.

Together, we are making a real difference in creating a safer, more connected, and more active community.