A RETURN to swimming lessons proved short-lived for Sunraysia children this week.

Following the easing of some restrictions, Mildura Waves Aquatic & Leisure Centre welcomed avid swimmers back to the pools, only for the region to be thrown back into another lockdown last night.

On Tuesday, a four-week modified swim program was launched with the aim of reintroducing children to the water after almost two months of no lessons.

“The sooner we can transition kids back into the water ahead of summer and the warmer months the better,” swim school head Andrea Brown said.

The four week program was set to focus on water safety, building confidence in the water and defining stroke techniques.”

It is offered only to those aged five to 12 with the hope that swimming lessons for all ages can resume in the coming weeks as restrictions ease.

“This age group is the most curious about water, but a lot can be timid and scared,” Ms Brown said.

“The earlier we can get them in the water, the sooner they can develop their confidence and in a district like Sunraysia, where there are a lot of pools and the river. 

“It is really important they have that confidence and have a good understanding of water safety.

“As well as it being a great fun activity for them to take part in.”

With many Sunraysia children spending most of their time at home over the past few months, Ms Brown said there was plenty of excitement from parents, grandparents and children when they were briefly allowed back into the water.

Sunraysia’s David Gardiner was among the people very pleased to return to Mildura Waves lessons, where he usually takes his granddaughters Peyton Brabender and Mia Gardiner, both 7.

“The kids were absolutely rapt to get back into lessons,” he said.

For nine-year-old Maeli Kehl, being able to restart lessons meant the world.

“For Maeli, having seen the younger year levels return to school while she hasn’t been able to has been hard,” her mother Kate Kehl said.

“The kids have really missed connections, so she was very excited to be back swimming.

“It’s really important that everyone supports as many local businesses like the Mildura Waves as they all start to reopen.”

The latest lockdown, which is set to last .... days, was announced by  the Victorian Government late yesterday. 

Mildura Waves hopes students at all levels can return as soon as restrictions ease.