Cooper Onyett : “School Boy Weak Swimmer Camp Drowning Tragedy”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Child swimming safety
2. Water safety for kids

Grade 2 student Cooper Onyett tragically drowned at Belfast Aquatics in Victoria’s southwest during a school trip organized by Merrivale Primary School. Despite his mother indicating he was a beginner swimmer, the school failed to pass on this crucial information to the pool. The lack of communication about the students’ swimming abilities led to a devastating outcome. The Victoria education department has pleaded guilty to breaching safety regulations. The court proceedings revealed the oversight in sharing vital information with the pool management. The incident has raised concerns about ensuring proper safety measures are in place during school activities involving water.

**Tragic Incident at Belfast Aquatics**

**A heartbreaking tragedy struck the small town of Port Fairy in Victoria’s southwest on May 21, 2021, when Grade 2 student Cooper Onyett lost his life in a drowning accident at Belfast Aquatics. The incident unfolded during a school trip organized by Merrivale Primary School in Warrnambool, which has left the community in shock and mourning.**

**Lack of Communication Led to the Tragedy**

**The devastating turn of events stemmed from a lack of communication between the school and the aquatic center. Parents were asked to provide information about their children’s swimming abilities before the trip, but this crucial information was not passed on to Belfast Aquatics. As a result, when the 28 grade 2 students arrived at the pool, there was confusion about their swimming proficiency.**

**Tragic Consequences of Negligence**

**Cooper, who was identified as a weak swimmer, found himself in deep water despite his limited experience. Tragically, he was spotted twice outside the shallow area, ultimately leading to the heartbreaking moment when he was found floating underwater. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Cooper could not be saved, leaving a community in mourning and seeking answers.**

**Accountability and Lessons Learned**

**In the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, the Victoria education department has pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety legislation, acknowledging the failure to ensure the safety of students outside of school employees. The plea hearing has shed light on the importance of proper communication and planning when organizing school activities involving water.**

**Moving Forward with Safety Measures**

**As the plea hearing continues, it is clear that steps must be taken to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The acknowledgment of mistakes and the commitment to improved communication and safety protocols are crucial in ensuring the well-being of students during school outings. The community awaits the sentencing of Port Fairy Community Pool Management, hoping for justice and accountability in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.**

**In Memory of Cooper Onyett**

**As the community mourns the loss of young Cooper Onyett, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of diligence and communication in ensuring the safety of children. The memory of Cooper will forever be cherished, and his passing will spark important conversations about safety protocols and accountability in school activities. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire positive change in the community.**