Keep the Kimberley Spirit Carnivals coming

Royal Life Saving WA, in partnership with Lotterywest, hosted the third annual Kimberley Spirit Carnival at Halls Creek Aquatic and Recreation Centre on Friday 24 November.

70 students and six schools were in attendance this year, showcasing their best swimming and lifesaving skills.

The schools included Ngalangangpum School, Halls Creek District High School, Purnululu Aboriginal School, Wangkatjungka Remote Community School, Warlawurru Catholic School and Yiyili Aboriginal Community School.

For schools like Ngalangangpum School, it was their first time attending a Spirit Carnival, but by the sounds of it they'll definitely be back next year!

Kate Murphy, Ngalangangpum School Teacher said she had been looking forward to it all week and that “the carnival was a good incentive for kids to come to school.”

Starting off the carnival strong, a Warlawurru Catholic School student delivered a Welcome to Country, before the kids took part in the first event of the day - a magic carpet race using all the mats on offer in the pool.

It's safe to say the kids loved it and engagement was high.

Then it was time to dive into the main events! There were 25m and 50m freestyle and breaststroke races, 10m rope throws and rescue tube relays.

A fan favourite from the recent Pilbara Spirit Carnival also made its way to our Kimberley Spirit Carnival, the kayaks – and the kids were thrilled.

With all their efforts in the pool, the students were delighted when morning tea, lunch and snacks were handed out. Fresh fruit was in abundance with delicious rockmelon, apples, pears and strawberries.

Lunch was an assortment of homemade sandwiches with something for everyone, with classic sandwich fillings hitting the spot.

And to finish off, the kids received juice boxes and Zooper Doopers. What could be a more perfect way to cool down after a hot day.

Just when they thought the day couldn't get any better, the kids got to finish the carnival with a splash dance.

And who could forget the cheer squad complete with Fitzroy Crossing Pool Managers Katie and Chris who came along on their day off to support the kids competing?

Royal Life Saving WA Swimming Instructor Coordinator, Catherine Buckley, said the day was a huge success and a great turnout.

“I really appreciate the time and effort of all the teachers who travelled many hours to bring their students to the Carnival. I also want to thank the team of Halls Creek Royal Life Saving Swim Instructors who made the day possible.

“The enthusiasm and smiles from the kids makes it all worth it.”

We can't wait to see you all again next year!