Australia wades in to float Lanka's 'Surfing' industry

An Australian Government initiative to help the booming 'Surfing' industry, was launched in Arugambay with a Surf Instructor Training Programme, by the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Bryce Hutchesson.

"This project is designed to strengthen the Tourism value chain by providing an adequate supply of skills and international recognition to the Surf Coaches and Instructors at Arugambay. The objective of the project is to increase the income of 28 informal Surf Coaches and Instructors in the District, through improving the skills in Surf Instruction, Beach Lifesaving, Aquatic First Aid & Emergency Response, strengthening surf clubs to manage service standards and visitor expectations," an official statement by the organisers said.

In addition, the programme also looks to develop the partnership with the Tourism Association, hoteliers, training providers, tourism related stakeholders and the International Surfing Association. The successful participants will be awarded international standard certification.

While the Chamber of Commerce will implement and partner to establish this project, the Tourism Association and the Sri Lanka Federation of Surfing Associations will be supporting to ensure successful implementation. Pottuvil Provincial Council Chairman, Divisional Authority representatives, Arugambay Surf Club, United Surf Club and other stakeholders were present at the launch.