The lifesaving stars of tomorrow joined Auburn Lifesaving Club for the first Junior Short Course competition ever to be held in NSW.

The carnival was held at Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre (REAC) in Lidcombe, NSW yesterday (Sunday August 30) and attracted dozens of families from across the region.

Once one of the strongest clubs in Australia, the Auburn Lifesaving Club had been struggling for members until yesterday. Organisers were delighted with the level of support from the community, particularly the REAC Management, and said the event marked the beginning of the club's rejuvenation.

This carnival format was new to the NSW competition calendar and held as a come and try day for new and younger members of Lifesaving. It proved a great success with 25 competitors from 4 years to 12 years coming with their families to try the Sport of Pool Lifesaving before the official competition season starts in November.

The youngsters tried their hand at the lifesaving skills of line throw, manikin rescue and manikin tow with a rescue tube. For many it was their first time at even seeing the events of Pool Lifesaving but they were in for the challenge. Age groups range from Under 9, 9/10 and 11/12 with a range of modified skills across the events tailored to the ability of the age groups.

Along with a sausage sizzle and inflatable slide all enjoyed the afternoon with many looking forward to testing their skills at the first carnival and throughout the summer season.

The Sport of Pool Lifesaving is about Sport, Participation and Leadership skills for Life. It has a participation pathway that provides regular opportunities for lifesavers from community to elite level.

Many thanks must go to the staff and management of REAC and to the many volunteers on the day for helping make the day possible. The Club is looking forward to having a beneficial relationship with its home pool once again.

Auburn Lifesaving Club competes at all levels of competition from Junior through to State, National and International Lifesaving Events and welcomes new members of any age and ability.

For more information on Pool Lifesaving and to find a club near you visit www.royallifesaving.com.au