Local winner: Ben Fishburn wants more swimmers to join Hills Swimming Lifeguard Club. Picture: Mike Szabath
POOL lifesaving was given a boost around The Hills this week following Sydney's hosting of the 2013 Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.
For local swimmers such as Kellyville's Ben Fishburn, 18, it was a welcome relief to have the annual event staged in Sydney for the first time since 2004.
"This is my fifth successive national championship so it's nice to stay at home and sleep in my own bed."
He hopes his championship performance at Knox Grammar School will encourage others to join the sport.
"I'd recommend the sport to anyone.
"Pool lifesaving teaches life skills around the water and gives you an opportunity to complete your bronze medallion, first-aid certificate and CPR training."
Fishburn showcased his all-round abilities this week by qualifying for nine individual and team events.
He competed for individual honours in the 200 metre obstacles, 50 and 100 metre carry, line throw and 200 metre super lifesaver category. He then swam legs for Hills Swimming Lifeguard club in the men's 4x50 metre medley relay and 4x50 metre obstacle events.