ARARAT footballer Cori Corrigan recently had the unique experience of participating in the Taking Flight program, which included the Long Walk and the Dreamtime at the ‘G match.
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Corrigan is an under-17 footballer with the Ararat Football Netball Club. His father Mitchell is a member of the AFNC, and they were selected to participate in the 2016 program.
Taking Flight is a program that acknowledges the great range of untapped potential that exists in children and young people, particularly those living within our Indigenous or remote country communities.
It recognises that as a community, we all have an important role to play in helping young people to ‘take flight’ into the adult world; helping and encouraging them to reach high, to dream big, and to achieve all that they may hope for, and more.
Anglicare Victoria’s Community Development Co-ordinator for Western Victoria, David Law, the Goolam Goolam Aboriginal Co Operative, and the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co Operative have combined with the Essendon Football Club, Tennis Australia and Australian National Academy of Music to provide a potentially life changing experience to a small select group of indigenous people.
Former Rats president, Billy Bell, said he has been fortunate enough as a volunteer to witness first hand the power and untapped potential this program has had on the participants.
“It is easy to be attracted to the organic nature of the program, real life experiences that potentially will positively shape the future aspirations of all involved,” Mr Bell said.
“Being part of the Long Walk to the MCG was a fantastic experience, full credit to indigenous leader Michael Long for his vision of an united Australia.
“We are certainly fortunate to have people such as David Law from Anglicare Victoria. David's energy and enthusiasm has significantly contributed to the development of this program.”
The Taking Flight program’s activities were held over two days, May 27 and 28. As well as the Long Walk and Dreamtime game, it included a visit to the Essendon Football Club and a dinner at the South Melbourne Town Hall.
There was also a health and wellness session held at Richmond Boxing Club and students experienced a full tour of the Tennis Australia facility, including Rod Laver Arena.
