Course Overview
This nationally recognised Open Water Rescues course is designed for lifeguards, outdoor recreation leaders, and others who may be required to perform complex rescues in open water environments.
Open water includes natural flatwater areas such as lakes, lagoons, dams, slow- moving rivers, and non-surf beaches, as well as built aquatic environments such as surf parks, wave pools, and inland lagoons. Training also supports specialist roles such as supervising open water swimming events and providing snorkel watch.
Participants will learn to assess environmental conditions, identify hazards, plan rescues, and safely assist casualties using swim-based techniques and non- motorised rescue craft (e.g. rescue boards, surfboards, paddleboards, SUPs, and canoes). The course builds confidence to operate effectively in high-pressure aquatic environments while working safely as part of a team.
What You’ll Learn
Assess open water environments and identify hazards
Recognise signs and signals of distress in open water
Plan and carry out safe open water rescues
Perform swim-based rescues in varying conditions
Use non-motorised rescue craft (rescue boards, surfboards, SUPs, canoes)
Negotiate environmental hazards such as currents, debris, and sudden water movement
Communicate clearly with team members, emergency services, and casualties
Supervise open water swimming and snorkel activities
Work effectively as part of a rescue team under pressure
Complete incident documentation accurately
Pre-Course Learning (Online)
Online theory modules and assessment via the student portal
Approx. 3 hours to complete (timeframes may vary depending on experience)
Practical Session (Face-to-Face)
Swim & rescue board demonstrations
Delivered in natural or built open water environments
Certification
Nationally recognised Statement of Attainment issued by Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909
Certificate issued on successful completion
Duration – Online Pre-Course Learning & Practical
Online learning: Approx. 1-3 hours
Face to face practical training: 3 hours
Assessment
Participants must complete both theory and practical assessments, including:
-
Theory Assessment
- Written assessment (multiple-choice and short answer questions)
-
Practical Performance Tasks
- Swim 25 metres, retrieve an object simulating a person from a depth of up to 2 metres, then perform a 25-metre contact tow of an unconscious casualty, negotiating environmental hazards
- Perform an open water rescue using non-motorised rescue craft (rescue board, surfboard, SUP, or canoe), negotiating prevailing conditions and hazards
-
Documentation
- Complete an Incident Report form
Certificate Validity &amRenewal
Valid for 12 months (annual renewal required)
Entry Requirements (Including Prerequisites)
To enrol, participants must:
- Provide valid photo identification
- Be physically capable of completing complex open water rescues, including:
- Swimming and towing casualties
- Using non-motorised rescue craft
- Have adequate vision to recognise visual distress signals
- Have adequate hearing to respond to audible calls for help
- Have access to a computer, smartphone, or tablet with internet access
Highly recommended (not mandatory):
- Prior completion of SISCAQU020 Perform Water Rescues
- Ability to swim 400 metres in under 8 minutes
Cost & Payment
$108
Pay online via Visa/Mastercard or PayPal to secure your place, or request an invoice to your employer after the practical session.
Who This Course Is For
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Units of Competency
On successful completion, you’ll receive a recognised Statement of Attainment issued by Allens Training Pty Ltd (RTO 90909) for:
SISCAQU029 Perform Open Water Rescues
Training and assessment delivered on behalf of Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909