An aspect of Skandia Geelong Week which organisers are extremely proud of is the Rotary Youth Program.

Originating in 2001, the program allows selected youth from regional Victoria to enjoy a memorable experience via participation in Australia’s largest sailing event – Skandia Geelong Week.

The concept was instigated by Skandia Geelong Week Patron, John Bertrand. In 2001 John Bertrand who is also a Victorian Australia Day committee member, introduced the concept which has evolved into the Rotary Youth Program.

“The core objective was to connect regional Victoria to the metropolitan Australia Day celebration, thus creating a wide eyed, awe inspiring ‘day in the life of’ Australia Day experience” John Bertrand AM.

Six students are selected each year by clubs within the 9800 Victorian Rotary districts, which includes areas like Daylesford, Castlemaine, Bendigo, and Echuca-Moama.

Students are selected based on their achievements and the program acknowledges the hard work and commitment these students have displayed to date.  These achievements could be via services to the community or sporting or academic excellence.

Past recipients describe their experience…

“This experience was one not to be forgotten. It was the most awesome thing I think I have ever done”.
Caitlyn O’Sullivan Rotary TS Bendigo

“My Skandia experience, I couldn’t lie…it was fantastic”.
Callum Healey Eaglehawk Rotary Club

“An awesome and daring experience, the experience of a lifetime, an overwhelming and memorable experience”.
Emma Hicks Bendigo Rotary Club

“If there was one word in the English dictionary that meant exhilarating yet testing, thrilling, wonderful and sometimes a little frightening, utterly magnificent and a once in a lifetime adventure, it would most certainly be the word that I would use to describe my Skandia Geelong Week experience”.
Francesca Ahearn Echuca/Moama Rotary Club

“An amazing experience”.
Rebecca Perkins Echuca/Moama Rotary Club