United Voice News
Melbourne Storm star new Ambassador for Kokoda Annual Youth Trek
Robbie Kearns, retired captain of NRL champions the Melbourne Storm, was made Ambassador for the Kokoda Annual Youth Trek at an Anti-Poverty Week 2009 event in October.
The Trek helps disadvantaged kids from Melbourne’s west steer clear of a life of crime and unemployment. It has received strong support from the LHMU, Host Plus Super and Victoria Police.
Over ten gruelling days students walk the 96-kilometre long famous Kokoda Track, through the misty mountains of Papua New Guinea.
So far 51 participants have completed the Trek in the three years it has been running.
The life skills they learned along the way helped them to stay at school. Many have now completed Year 12 and gone on to university, other training or a job.
Speaking at a Melbourne high school, sporting legend Kearns shared some wise words with next year’s possible trekkers.
"Leadership to me is seeing a problem and acting on it. You’ve got to be brave and you’ve got be a strong person."
Nafissa Abdullahi, a Somali refugee who grew up on a public housing estate, spoke of the strong friendships she forged on the hike.
"We felt good because we all completed it together and none of us gave up."
Nafissa, who completed Year 12 and is now studying legal services at university, urged the students to get involved.
"It’s the best opportunity, so if you get a chance go for it!"
LHMU Victorian Secretary Jess Walsh said the LHMU is proud to support the Trek.
"We are a proud supporter of this fantastic program. For us it is about helping the people we represent at work build better lives and stronger communities."
"In Anti-Poverty Week it is important to remember poverty affects about one million Australians. Unions play a vital role in helping many of these Australians climb out of poverty by campaigning for good jobs and decent pay."
