There has been strong demand for places in the upcoming annual VACSWIM learn-to-swim lessons at Millicent, Beachport and Penola.

Some of the popular sessions at these venues have already been booked out and waiting lists have been created.

Lessons are also being offered at the Nangwarry pool over summer with places still available in all sessions.

Pre-Christmas lessons are being offered at the Penola pool and Millicent swimming lake while swimming classes are scheduled for the New Year at the Nangwarry pool and in the bay at Beachport.

On-line bookings are mandatory for all VACSWIM sessions and fees are charged.

If past practice is followed, Beachport will be the most popular venue in the Wattle Range Council area with more than 200 participants.

VACSWIM is a State Government supported initiative which provides children with opportunities to develop a range of skills and positive experiences in the areas of water safety, confidence and competence in the water, personal survival activities and basic aquatic emergency procedures.

Meanwhile, swimmers at the Millicent lake have appreciated upgraded facilities provided by Wattle Range Council.

Its Parks and Gardens team has replaced the playground equipment and shade structures over winter at the man-made lake.

The project came about when critical defects in the existing equipment were identified through council’s regular playground audits.

Over the winter, council has replaced the kiosk and changerooms roof and installed auto-locks to the change rooms.

All the lighting poles and flood lights at the lake are also being replaced.