Changing the Lives of Young
People Through Rowing
The Concept
At the core of the Making Waves program is the fundamental belief that sport can be used to influence and change lives for the better.
The program is all about giving young people the confidence and self-belief that no matter who you are or where you come from that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Champion Lakes Regatta Centre is situated in Perth’s south east corridor where the population faces numerous socio-economic challenges. The area has many at risk youth and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups who do not have the same access and opportunity to be involved in higher education and sport.
Making Waves engages with local high schools, education providers and community groups throughout this area.
2016 City of Armadale demographic data indicates
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/10/Australia-150x150.png)
35% of the population are new residents born overseas
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/10/graduation-hat-and-diploma-150x150.png)
Only 49% of residents have completed Yr 12 and only 16% have a University level education
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/10/arrow-chart-150x150.png)
Youth unemployment is one of the highest in Perth
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/10/dollar-150x150.png)
Median household incomes are significantly lower than greater Perth
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/10/kids-150x150.png)
The proportion of disengaged youth increased significantly from 2011-16 and is rising
The Making Waves Target Population
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/11/IMG_2964.jpg)
Adolescent boys and girls
aged 11-17yrs
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/11/IMG_0660-Approved.jpg)
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse groups (CaLD)
![](https://makingwaves.asn.au/app/uploads/2019/11/IMG_0668-Approved.jpg)