The trip organised by Royal Life Saving was heavily supported by major partners Qantas, Quest Serviced Apartments, Emerton Leisure Centre, Good Az Gold, BP petrol cards and the City of Sydney Council.

"Royal Life Saving received support both internationally and nationally following the unfortunate incident in Alice Springs in March when the group was asked to leave pre booked accommodation. As part of our Indigenous Remote Pools Program established 3 years ago we have succeeded with the help of corporate generosity in bringing the group to a major metropolitan aquatic facility such as Emerton Leisure Centre to complete their training before the pool in Yuendumu opens," Royal Life Saving CEO, Rob Bradley said.

"Providing this group of indigenous leaders with the opportunity to experience a major aquatic centre to complete their lifeguard and facilities management training, whilst enjoying Sydney provides the perfect basis to move forward in a positive direction.

"Without the support and generosity of our major partners for this event Qantas, Quest Serviced apartments, Emerton Leisure Centre, City of Sydney and Good Az Gold who have provided free airfares, accommodation, aquatic facility and transport it would not have been possible to bring the group to Sydney to complete their training.

"In addition to the serious side, major Sydney attractions have opened their doors to welcome the group. They have experienced the landmark Bridge Climb, visit Taronga Zoo arranged by Qantas and be part of a Sydney Swans training session. 

"If Royal Life Saving could provide a similar opportunity for the other remote Indigenous communities working with us it would help us achieve our goal to nationally build healthy communities that much faster," Bradley added.

"The mob is very tired from a busy week but excited to get home to Yuendumu to pass on all the knowledge to our community," Sherelle Young said.

"It was a sad time back in March but we want to thank Royal Life Saving and everyone who made this possible, thank you Sydney," Bethany Langdon said.

The Yuendumu group finished the week by visiting Taronga Zoo, as well the zoo organised a special "behind the scenes" tour to meet the giraffes.

They flew home with Qantas to Yuendumu, taking back lifesaving skills and memories of a positive experience when Sydney made them feel welcome.

Emma Lipscombe
Media Officer
Ph: (02) 8217 3133 Mobile: 0434 562 307