Cooper Onyett : “Boy Weak Swimmer Camp Drowning”

By Trend News Line 2024-05-23 05:53:08.

Tragic Loss of Grade 2 Student at Belfast Aquatics

A heartbreaking incident occurred on May 21, 2021, at Belfast Aquatics in Port Fairy, Victoria, resulting in the tragic drowning of grade 2 student Cooper Onyett. The young boy, part of a school trip organised by Merrivale Primary School in Warrnambool, lost his life during what was supposed to be a fun day at the aquatic centre.

Failure to Communicate Swimming Abilities

Prior to the trip, parents were asked to provide information about their children’s swimming abilities. Cooper’s mother indicated that he was a beginner swimmer with little to no experience in shallow water. However, this crucial information was not relayed to the pool staff, putting the children at risk.

Lack of Supervision and Oversight

Upon arrival at the aquatic centre, the grade 2 students were asked if they could swim. Those who claimed they could were taken to an inflatable obstacle course in the deep end of the pool. Unfortunately, many of these children were later identified as weak swimmers and redirected to the shallow end. Cooper, among them, was seen venturing into deeper waters despite his lack of swimming proficiency.

Tragic Turn of Events

A fellow swimmer noticed Cooper floating underwater and initially thought he was simply holding his breath. It wasn’t until 40 seconds later that the gravity of the situation became apparent. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Cooper tragically passed away at the pool.

Guilty Plea and Legal Ramifications

The Victoria education department has accepted responsibility for the breach of health and safety legislation that led to Cooper’s untimely death. Failure to ensure adequate communication of the children’s swimming abilities to the pool staff contributed to this devastating outcome.

Call for Accountability

During the plea hearing, questions arose regarding the collection of information about the children’s swimming abilities without its transmission to the pool. The necessity of proactive communication between schools and activity providers, especially in activities involving water, was emphasized.

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

In light of this tragedy, the department has implemented new protocols mandating the disclosure of students’ swimming abilities to pool facilities. While it may not reverse the events of May 21, this measure aims to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Justice for Cooper

As the legal proceedings continue, the Port Fairy Community Pool Management has also admitted to breaching health and safety regulations. The upcoming sentencing on May 31 will hopefully bring a sense of closure and accountability for the loss of young Cooper Onyett..

– Weak swimmer boy
– School camp drowning.