Question 1

What are the pre-requisites to attend the Instructor Course?

Accepted Answer

Please view the pre-requisites as per the Good Practice Guideline: Swiftwater Breathing Apparatus available from https://publicsafety.institute/gpg-swba/ and no contraindications for recreational diving as per https://tinyurl.com/42hyew9v

Question 2

What are the pre-requisites to attend the Specialist Course?

Accepted Answer

Students MUST hold a recognised ISO Supervised Diver (i.e. PADI SCUBA Diver or above), Swiftwater Rescue Technician (SRT1, PUASAR002, IPSQA, ITRA etc), and no contraindications for recreational diving (or have a medical clearance) as per https://tinyurl.com/42hyew9v

Question 3

Can I just do the specialist course without becoming an instructor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, just select the Specialist ticket and attend only the second day (a morning or afternoon slot will be allocated to you).

Question 4

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

You will need to bring full swiftwater technician PPE including Wetsuit/Drysuit, PFD, helmet etc. You must also bring a suitable low volume dive mask that fits easily to and while wearing your helmet. We will have SWBA to use during the course. Please also bring your own food, snacks and water.

Question 5

What if I am still working on completing the pre-requisites?

Accepted Answer

You can purchase a ticket, however we will not issue a refund because you have not met pre-requisites to enter the course.

Question 6

What are the physical/swimming requirements?

Accepted Answer

You need to be fit and confident to swim 50m in less than 60 seconds AND be comfortable swimming in Grade 3/Class III flow.

Question 7

Is there an pre-course learning?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a mandatory 90 minute online learning module, including an examination you must pass. Once you are confirmed on the course, you will be issued a coupon to access the online learning.

Question 8

I am a kayaker or raft guide, can I attend?

Accepted Answer

Providing you have a river rescue certification and scuba certification, you are welcome.

Question 9

If I am doing the instructor course, do I need to ensure I have students available?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You will need to ensure you have at least two specialist course students signed up to ensure your instructor cohort have a sufficient number of students to teach on day 2.

Question 10

What are the course timings?

Accepted Answer

Please set aside from 8am to 5pm whether you are doing Day 2 or Days 1 & 2. We will advise precise timing within two weeks of the course commencement.

Question 11

Can I purchase a type-approved SWBA device to take away from the course?

Accepted Answer

We are working with suppliers to see if this can be arranged, along with a special discount. We will be able to advice within two weeks of the course commencement.

Question 12

I am a Trainer/Assessor for PUASAR002 for an RTO, but do not have a formal instructor qual?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is deemed a qualified swiftwater instructor providing you can verify you hold PUASAR002, TAE and a letter confirming your TA scope from your RTO.

Question 13

If I am looking at becoming an instructor, are they any agreements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you successfully complete the instructor course requirements as part of the certification you will need to sign an instructor agreement. This protects the intellectual property of the SWBA programme, but also ensures you agree to adhere to the Good Practice Guideline.

Question 14

What if I don't pass the course?

Accepted Answer

For Specialist Students, given you are already SRT1 and a Diver, it is unlikely that you will not be able to meet course requirements. For Instructors, given you are already instructors/divemasters, it is unlikely also. However, if you are unable to meet requirements we can issue a letter.

Question 15

If I cannot attend, can I transfer my ticket to another person?

Accepted Answer

If that person meets the pre-requisites then yes, subject to prior approval. If you have already completed the online learning, the replacement will need to pay an additional fee ($95) for their online learning.

Question 16

I don't have a SCUBA certificate but I am qualified for fire service SCBA/Breathing Apparatus?

Accepted Answer

No, we are unable to accept this in lieu of SCUBA certification. It is critical for safety that attendees have completed the recognised SCUBA certification and are already confident using a mouthpiece regulator. This standard has been set in consultation with H&S regulators.

Question 17

I am an international student outside of Australia and having difficulties booking, can you help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sometimes trying to buy tickets from outside of Australia online can be an issue for EventBrite. Contact us info@publicsafety.institute so we can arrange alternative payment by wire transfer or paypal.

Question 18

Do you accept government purchase orders?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept NZ and AUS government purchase orders. We can also accept purchase orders from government agencies from other countries, but the funds must clear prior to the course commencing.

SWBA Specialist / Instructor Course