AS the school holidays draw closer for the Border’s students, a few have been able to get out of the classroom and out onto Lake Hume to learn about sailing and water safety.
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The Albury-Wodonga Yacht Club has been hosting students from as far away as Mitta, Talgarno and Upper Sandy Creek, as well as around Albury-Wodonga, teaching them how to sail, but also look after themselves on the water.
It was Wodonga West Primary’s turn on Friday, with students setting out on the lake in pairs, many piloting a craft for the first time.
Yacht club committee member and instructor Stuart Howsam said it was crucial that kids could feel confident on the water.
“We think it’s really important to get kids familiar with the water, and getting them in boats is another way of doing that,” he said.
“We do a variety of programs depending on what the school wants.
“The introductory program we’ve been doing shows them the boats, points out the different parts of the sail, safety and life-jacket checks, and the basics of how to sail.”
Once they’ve gotten to grips with the boats on dry land, students pair off and have the chance to sail by themselves, accompanied a few safety ribs on the water with them as well.
Mr Howsam said it was impressive how quickly the kids could come to grips with being on the water, especially those who had been nervous about setting sail.
“It’s all about helping them them give it a try, we find almost all of them enjoy it,” he said.
“Some are nervous, but once they have a go it really boosts their confidence.
“For many it’s their first time in control of a vessel.”