Listen up, participaction people

It's not always a big love affair between Australia and I. I have my days when I am completely frustrated by how different it feels from Canada (and not in a good way). For example, Aussies don't seem to use that politeness/political correctness filter that most of us Canadians use in our conversations. More than once I've left a conversation thinking "Was that guy a total jerk, or was he just being Australian (and am I being too Canadian)? Also, I can't stand that they still teach scripture in public schools, and don't get me started on the attitudes towards and treatment of asylum seekers in this country (I know, I know, I'm just asking for a mean comment from Anonymous....bring it on!).

But, here's where I think they've done something really great. Surf Life Saving is an iconically Australian organization, largely run by volunteers, who patrol the beaches and save people from rips, stingers and sharks. The best part about it is the Nippers program for kids. This program runs throughout the summer months, once a week, on the beach, and it involves sand and water sports for kids. It's designed to encourage fitness outdoors and to teach surf safety (and if you could experience our beach with its huge waves and massive rips - you'd know how important this is). And because it's run mostly by volunteers, it leads to a a real sense of community. Gus is in Nippers this year and he's loving it. He's especially loving board training and since he's started it, he likes to talk to me about catching a good glider and the value of eskimo rolls (I told him he should tell his instructor that they should be called inuit rolls, but he won't do it).

So, participaction, are you listening? How about a snow safety program? Just think about it.

Gus in board training:


Parents and kids waiting for Nippers to start.

Gus, waiting for Nippers (yeah - I don't get the hat either)

Sand races

Swim races