Surfing Lessons at Maroubra Beach Enrich Lives of Indigenous Youth

In the vibrant coastal suburb of Maroubra, 35 Indigenous young people from remote Northern Territory (NT) communities took to the waves, embracing both joy and challenge in the surf.

Maroubra NT Camp 2024 — *Photo Credit: NASCA/Instagram*

This adventure was part of NT Camp 2024’s week-long empowerment program, a key initiative by the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy (NASCA) to provide enriching experiences for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.

Foundations and Growth of NT Camp

Running the NT Camp since 2018, NASCA aims to increase school involvement and academic performance for Indigenous students from remote areas. This annual event is a crucial part of NASCA’s strategy to develop lifelong skills and cultural connections.

Partnership Enhances Experience

Instructors teaching surfing at Maroubra Beach — *Photo Credit: NASCA/Instagram*

The surfing sessions at Maroubra Beach were held in partnership with Let’s Go Surfing, a local organization founded by Brenda Miley in 1995. Famous for encouraging women and the broader community to get into surfing, Let’s Go Surfing played a key role in introducing the sport to the camp participants, aiming to build confidence and promote physical well-being.

Surf and Skills at Maroubra

Indigenous youth surfing at Maroubra Beach — *Photo Credit: NASCA/Instagram*

With the help of experienced surf instructors, the young participants tackled the waves, learning not just how to surf but also gaining life lessons in resilience and teamwork. The surfing day was part of a broader program that included visits to local cultural and sports facilities, highlighting the camp’s comprehensive approach to youth development.

Community Insights and Program Impact

The community and participants have responded in a very positive way. The camp has proven the power of combining cultural and sports-based learning in educational initiatives. Each year, NASCA’s NT Camp aims to broaden its reach and refine its activities to better support Indigenous communities.

Group photo of NT Camp 2024 participants — *Photo Credit: NASCA/Instagram*

Sustainable Success and Future Plans

Looking ahead, NT Camp is focused on maintaining and expanding its successful model to further improve educational outcomes and personal development for Indigenous youth in remote regions of Australia.

Through activities like surfing at Maroubra, NASCA continues to make a positive impact, one wave at a time.

Published 9-Jan-2025