Variety is the word
KIDS WITH DISABILITIES OFTEN MISS OUT ON A LOT OF THOSE OPPORTUNITIES AND THIS IS WHAT THIS CAMP IS ABOUT
AFTER a two-year wait due to Covid the Variety Kids Sports Camp has finally come to Townsville, providing kids with a physical disability the opportunity to try different sports.
NRL Cowboys House is the venue for the three-day camp which started yesterday and runs until Sunday in which 25 participants aged from 6 to 15 are introduced to a range of sports including tennis, swimming, cricket, basketball and wheelchair rugby league.
Variety – The Children’s Charity of Queensland CEO Steve Wakerley said the program was designed to help ensure all kids get to participate in sport despite the challenges they may face.
“We have had to postpone twice because of Covid but we are so glad to finally be here giving the same opportunities to kids in North Queensland that kids in the South East corner get as well,” he said.
“We work on the ethos that all kids deserve a fair go and it should not matter if you live in Townsville, or Cape York, or Mt Isa or Winton, you should have the same opportunities as the next kid to reach your fill potential whatever it may be.
STEVE WAKERLEY
“Sport is so beneficial on so many levels such as health and fitness, mental health, learning teamwork, learning how to win, how to lose and social inclusion,” Mr Wakerley said.
“Kids with disabilities often miss out on a lot of those opportunities and this what this camp is about.
“Find a sport they love and hopefully join a local club and get then get going.”
Paralympic swimmer Chantel Wolfenden from Bundaberg, won gold at the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games and is volunteering at the camp hoping to inspire the participants.
“I encourage a lot of kids to choose a sport. It is good for your mind, it is good for your body, so have a go and get inspired.”
There are already plans for further camps in Townsville and people can register their interest at https:// www.variety.org.au/qld/