10 September 2024
First Nations children connect with country through snowsports
First Nations students from the South East had their first experience of snowsports at the NSW Office of Sport’s First Nations Snowsports Program at Jindabyne last week.
The Program, held from 1-6 September involved the students learning to ski or snowboard at Perisher Ski Resort before participating in the inaugural Indigenous Snowsports event at the National Interschools Snowsports Competition on Friday, 6 September.
Participants were based at Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre where they participated in cultural activities and employment pathways sessions as well as met with NSW Institute of Sport athletes based at the National Snowsports Training Centre.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“The NSW Office of Sport’s First Nations Snowsports Program is an incredible initiative that gives local First Nations children the opportunity to participate in snowsports and learn more about their culture.
“It was a fantastic week that culminated with their participation in the inaugural Indigenous Snowsports event at the National Interschools Snowsports Competition.
“I hope this is the first of many programs and that we can establish a pathway for young First Nations snowsports athletes.”
Office of Sport Chief Executive Karen Jones said:
“The Program aims to support local First Nations students to connect to land, water, community and Country.
“For many of the kids it was the first time they set foot on snow.
“The kids had a fantastic week learning to ski and snowboard as well as immersing themselves in their culture.”
Editor’s note: Images from last week’s program can be downloaded here: https://officeofsport.intelligencebank.com/customshare/index/eYAZ6
Media contact: Steve Norris 0417 291 346