ORA Bush Kids Program

Rowing belongs everywhere – and this 2 day program makes it happen for children in grades 7 - 12.

The Bush Kids Rowing Program is an initiative of Outback Rowing Australia designed to give children in regional and remote Queensland the chance to experience rowing in a fun, safe, and community-focused environment. Rowing is more than a sport, it’s teamwork, fitness, confidence, and connection to the water. For kids who may have never seen a rowing boat before, this is a unique opportunity to try something new and exciting, right in their own community.

In many parts of regional Australia, access to structured sport is limited. Rowing is traditionally city-based, but through Outback Rowing Australia we are changing that. By bringing boats, equipment, and coaching to remote waterways, we’re:

• Creating new opportunities for kids to be active and outdoors
• Building resilience, teamwork, and confidence through sport
• Connecting regional communities with the wider rowing network
• Laying the foundation for future participation in local, state, and even national rowing events

The program also introduces kids to a sport offered in many boarding schools, giving them a head start if they pursue rowing during their schooling, while also providing an outlet to keep enjoying the sport when they return home.

This program further builds bridges between bush and city communities, giving urban schools and coaches the chance to support regional programs through mentoring, resource sharing, and future exchange opportunities.

• Kids (Grade 7 - 12) in regional and remote towns who want to try a fun, team-based water sport.
• Parents and carers looking for safe, structured, and exciting activities for their children.
• Schools and educators interested in introducing students to unique sporting opportunities and active outdoor learning.
• City rowing schools and coaches who want to contribute to the growth of rowing beyond metropolitan centres.

The program runs over 2 full-days, giving participants the chance to learn, practice, and play on the water in a structured and supported environment.

2 Day Program: Learn to Row & Explore the Water

• 8:30 am – Meet  for a welcome and safety briefing
• Morning Session – Land-based introduction: rowing machines (ergos), parts of the boat, handling oars, and safe lifting
• Morning Tea – Refuel and prepare for the water
• Mid-morning Session – First on-water session: learning basic movements and working as a team
• Lunch Break – Relax and connect with new teammates
• Afternoon Session – Back on the water for more rowing, games, and confidence-building activities
• 2:30 pm – Program concludes for the day

The Bush Kids Program is $50 per person for the 2-day program, with costs proudly subsidised by Mort & Co, Teach Outback and Bush Kids and supported by Rowing Queensland, Distance Education networks and the Isolated Children’s and Parents’ Association.. Families may also be eligible to use a FairPlay Voucher to cover the fee—these can be applied for through the Queensland Government website: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/fairplay.

Interested in coaching at the Bush Kids Program in Barcaldine? 
Click here to apply – applications close 1 September 2025

In collaboration with Distance Education networks, the Isolated Children’s and Parents’ Association, Bush Kids Charity, Teach Outback, Rowing Queensland and our major sponsor Mort & Co, this program offers kids from the bush a unique opportunity to experience rowing in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.