Drowning deaths in Australia have alarmingly spiked in the past year, with interruptions to regular swimming during COVID-19 lockdowns flagged as one of the key reasons behind the increase.
A report found that the pandemic had seen people seeking out remote waterways to escape crowds, swimming outside patrolling hours and venturing to isolated beaches, rivers or lakes.
Lockdowns have also seen children miss out on swimming lessons and caused a reduction in pool access for others, triggering a lack of confidence in the water.