IN the wake of two tragic deaths at Frankston Beach, more ratepayer money will be spent on water safety this summer.
Frankston Council has announced it will spend $75,000 on the Can Swim program, which offers free beach-based swimming lessons. The all-ages program runs across Frankston Beach, Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, and the Pines Forest Aquatic Centre.
An additional $20,000 for lifesavers and beach patrol volunteers has also been committed by council. The money is expected to be shared between Frankston Lifesaving Club, Seaford Lifesaving Club, and the 3199 and 3198 Beach Patrol groups.
Seaford Lifesaving Club president Darren McLeod said the money would help fund new equipment. “Our volunteers work incredibly hard to keep beachgoers safe, and this additional investment from council will make a meaningful difference,” he said. “Having access to the right equipment ensures we can respond quickly and effectively when the community needs us most.”
Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said “the loss of two lives on our foreshore was incredibly heartbreaking. In the wake of such tragedy, I pledged additional investment in coastal safety measures, and we are now doing more than ever to support a safer summer for everyone.”
“Strong water skills save lives. By offering free beach swimming lessons to residents of all ages, we’re helping people build the skills they need to stay safe in and around the water,” he said.
Expressions of interest for the January 2026 Can Swim program are now open. For more information visit peninsulaleisure.com.au/can-swim/
First published in the Frankston Times – 9 February 2025