On Wednesday Year 9/10 Certificate I in Aquaculture students undertook a Wader Safety course with Seafood and Maritime Training in Hobart.

The morning began with theory which covered survival and rescue aspects including hypothermia, cold-water shock, and safe rescue techniques.

Students then transited to the Hobart Aquatic Centre to undertake the practical training. Students learnt techniques including the tuck position, which allows air to be trapped in the waders to provide flotation in an emergency. They also found out how difficult it is to extract yourself from the sea if your waders have filled with water.

The day concluded at SMT with the summative assessment exam. All students passed the exam with flying colours and are now qualified to enter our large fish tanks wearing waders to conduct maintenance.

Dave, the trainer from SMT said that this group of Year 9/10 HHS students were the best group that he has had through the course in the year he has been delivering it. The course is designed for adult fish farm workers and our students out-performed all the adults who have undertaken the course this year, finishing well ahead of schedule.

Steve Harrison
Year 11/12 Teacher