Jacob flies off for a year in Argentina

Aspiring actor and high school graduate Jacob Watters, 17, bid farewell to Broome last week as he began a 12-month trip to Argentina as part of the 2012 Rotary Youth Exchange program.

Last Wednesday, just days before he flew to Perth for the first leg of his journey, Jacob was sent off by the Rotary Club at its breakfast meeting.

The former St Mary’s College student was welcomed by members, including club president Mike Young, and presented with a bundle of Broome and Kimberley merchandise, including a rotary exchange blazer as parting gifts to take with him on his trip.

Jacob will spend the next year with a host family in Argentina, attending high school and experiencing a new culture.

Mr Young said the exchange program was a great way for young people to broaden their horizons and come back feeling more confident.

For the past six months, members of the Broome community have fundraised continually to support Jacob in his journey, which includes stops in Dubai and Brazil.

Although he was sad to leave Broome, Jacob said he was looking forward to learning a second language and embracing a new culture and lifestyle.

Besides family and friends, Jacob said he would probably miss the Australian food and lifestyle. The high school graduate said he was “blessed” to be chosen for the exchange program and thankful for the opportunity.

Jacob said he would have a gap year when he returned to Australia to have a break from studies, but said he university was on the cards.

“I still have a big passion for acting,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to going to university and study dramatic arts.” As club members farewelled Jacob, they welcomed two visitors to the town.

Mark Hanley, a long time member of the Kingston Rotary Club in Canada and visitor Ron Turley arrived in Broome last week as part of a Statewide tour of WA.