Surfing Australia’s Surf For Life program utilises surfing to build confidence, promote water safety, and foster resilience and community connection.
The day-long program saw eight young people from non-profit organisation BackTrack Youth Works dive into surfing lessons at Kingscliff Beach and then surf mobility, conditioning, skate training and activities at Surfing Australia’s Olympic Training Centre for some high-performance training experience. Designed for 11–18 year olds who need a practical, immersive and supported environment to learn, it gives young people facing challenges like disengagement, homelessness, trauma and justice involvement the chance to step outside their comfort zone, build new skills and connect in a positive setting.
The Surf for Life experience for BackTrack Youth Works has been made possible through the support of Kennards Hire, the Kennards Hire Foundation and Surfing Australia. Kennards Hire and The Kennards Hire Foundation have a long-standing partnership with BackTrack, providing financial assistance as well as equipment such as trailers, chainsaws and welders to train and upskill young people as part of BackTrack’s Youth Works, the social enterprise arm providing pathways for training and employment with life-changing results.
“This opportunity is about far more than learning to surf; it’s about building self-belief, developing critical ocean safety skills and creating space for connection and mentorship,” Kennards Hire Foundation Chair Lisa Cotton said. “We’re deeply committed to supporting programs that empower young Australians to thrive. BackTrack’s work in Armidale and beyond is nothing short of transformational, and we’re honoured to be partnering with them.”
Before joining BackTrack, 15-year-old Jimmy was disengaged from school and drifting into trouble, but through BackTrack’s Core program, he discovered his passion for hands-on work in the Shed with BackTrack Works’ supervisor Jase. With the support of BackTrack’s wraparound services, he became a full-time employee by mid-2024, has since developed strong welding skills and is now completing a TAFE course in Engineering and Fabrication with hopes of starting an apprenticeship. Most importantly, he’s gained confidence, good mates and a sense of belonging – proof of the life-changing impact of BackTrack’s programs.
“BackTrack is so grateful for the support from Kennards Hire Foundation, a relationship built on trust, connection and shared values,” BackTrack CEO Marcus Watson said. “The funding and in-kind support of equipment from Kennards Hire branches across the regions is invaluable. And so are events like the surfing weekend organised by Kennards Hire for our young people, providing experiences for our kids from regional areas that would never normally have such opportunities. It’s a testament to Kennards Hire’s belief in our mission and their commitment to walk alongside us for the long haul.”
BackTrack has been part of Kennards Hire’s Kids Bay community initiative over the last two years, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting young Australians. The Surf for Life experience builds on this history of collaboration, while also highlighting Kennards Hire’s recent national partnership with Surfing Australia as the Official Major Equipment Hire Partner of the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle.
“Surfing Australia is excited to run our first Surf for Life program with the support of Kennards Hire and the Kennards Hire Foundation,” Surfing Australia Participation and Programs Manager Blake Whittaker said. “This initiative will give young people from BackTrack the chance to experience the joy of surfing and take part in an action-packed program at our Olympic Training Facility. With this support, we can create new opportunities for these young people to build confidence and create lasting memories.”
For more information, visit BackTrack and Kennards Hire Foundation.
Read also: AMES Australia partners with an A-League soccer club to empower young people
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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