When Chi Duc Ho took part in Western Sydney University’s annual beach safety day a couple of weeks ago, it was his first such experience since arriving in March.
Chi found the whole experience educational as well as enjoyable.
“Being at the beach is part of Australian life,’’ says the international master of translation and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) student.
“Learning about beach safety is necessary knowledge and I recommend this program to other international students as you learn a lot while having fun and being social with other students,” Chi said.
“I found the experience changed my relationship to the beach.
“Not only did I gain tips about water safety but also specific tips about Australian beaches from the program leader who is a very informative local, full of passion for sharing the whole life experience about the beach with us.”
Almost 30 international students took part in this year’s recent Beach Safety Day in Bulli, pictured.
The program teaches international students vital beach safety skills such as how to identify a rip, the value of flotation devices, body surfing and more.
Western Sydney University’s inclusive communities coordinator Daniel Jantos said the beach safety days not only provide students with the essential skills they need to remain safe and comfortable in the water, it also helps to create a sense of place and belonging with Australian beach culture.
“During the program, students get to familiarise themselves with this well-known aspect of Australian life and realise that it can be a source of much enjoyment if approached safely,” he said.
“Students who were expecting to never have much to do with the beach find themselves really enjoying it and wanting to participate in beach life. It changes their experience of being in Australia, opening them up to even more opportunity for social connection.”
