Youth have adventure of a lifetime

A group of disadvantaged youth from Melbourne-based charity Cottage by the Sea had the adventure of a lifetime exploring the Kimberley this month thanks to the generous support of a local cruise operator.

The group set sail on a 10-day trip aboard the majestic blue Kimberley to Ocean catamaran on September 13 and arrived in Broome on Saturday.

The boys and girls, aged 13-16, are part of the Recreation, Education, Environment and Friendship program run by Cottage by the Sea.

As one of Australia’s oldest children’s charities, Cottage by the Sea is a not-for-profit organisation empowering disadvantaged children through outreach programs including REEF to help promote development and leadership.

Kimberley to Ocean managing director Mark Walsh donated the trip after meeting one of the charity’s representatives last year who was a guest on one of the tours.

During their trip, the children, who have never visited the Kimberley before, took in the stunning sights and natural attractions, including visiting Hunter Falls, Sapphire Falls and Kings Cascade.

They also got up close to Kimberley marine and wildlife, including whales, crocodiles and turtles.

Jaidyn Rowarth, 15, said the trip had been really exciting and he enjoyed numerous activities including fishing and swimming.

Pertricia Quarrell, also 15, said she enjoyed everything about the trip and said the Kimberley was a fantastic place to visit.

REEF program co-ordinators Bob Hampson, Shaun Ward and Bill Kerr accompanied the young people on the tour. Ms Hampson said the trip was an “incredible opportunity” for the youth and said she had seen their confidence soar as a result.

“We were blown away by the generosity of Kimberley to Ocean,” she said.

“This trip has fast-tracked the kids’ growth and their confidence, and it’s given an opportunity to teach the kids that through hard work and education, you don’t have to stay in a (disadvantaged) environment.”