Program makes a splash

The Regional and Remote Aboriginal Community Swimming Program has started in Broome, with indigenous male youths between the age of 5-17 taking part. The program started in early March and will be held on a weekly basis on Mondays at Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre, with hopes sessions will run for the next three years.

In partnership with Broome Senior High School and Broome Police, the program is funded by Healthways and the Royal Life Saving Society WA.

The major aims of the program are to re-engage indigenous youths into mainstream education and employment, while promoting healthy eating and living. A points system is used to reward consistent and regular competitors, with prizes available to incentivise the participants. BRAC program development officer Sarah Boettcher said the initiative has been enjoyable and educational to date.

“The boys are starting to really get involved with the program and they are enjoying it; it has been a lot of fun,” she said.

A female program will be run by the Broome Girls Academy.