AusTriathlon has taken the first step on its journey of reconciliation through sport with the launch of its ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) today.
CLICK HERE to view AusTriathlon’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan
AusTriathlon’s RAP has been an important project laid out in the recently released Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan and is aligned to the sport’s Strategic Plan by making further strides on creating A Sport for Everyone. The RAP will also assist AusTriathlon in unlocking its potential to becoming a culturally safe and aware sport, that not only recognises First Nations peoples but celebrates their culture and contribution to the sport.
AusTriathlon CEO Tim Harradine said: “AusTriathlon is proud to release our “Reflect” Reconciliation Action Plan, our first official step towards reconciliation.
“Australia is a proud triathlon nation, likely thanks to the incredible landscapes across the country that showcase the three disciplines of swim, bike and run so beautifully.
“For over 60,000 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived on and looked after these lands and we are so fortunate in 2024 to be able to reflect on this whilst enjoying the sport we love.
“Sport has the power to bring people together, honour cultures and traditions, and celebrate the diversity of society as such AusTriathlon feels an immense responsibility to be the leaders for this in our sport.
“With a vision of creating a happier, healthier and more connected nation through triathlon and multisport experiences, we are proud to take the first step towards connecting to our First Nations community with our first RAP,” he said.
Noongar & Martujarra man Nat Heath, Founder of TRIMOB (Australia’s first and only First Nations focused triathlon club) and an accomplished triathlete, assisted the development of the RAP and steered the organisation towards this momentous outcome. “It’s been so good to work with AusTriathlon to help develop their first RAP. A big part of TRIMOB’s role, beyond providing real opportunities to grow participation of First Nations people, is also to create and shape systemic change and this is the start of that change at AusTriathlon.”
As part of the RAP, AusTriathlon will unveil its Indigenous artwork, which has been designed by proud desert/ Eastern Arrernte and Western Bundjalung man Ambrose Scott Killian.
The artwork will be officially unveiled at the AusTriathlon Awards on Sunday 8 December, and captures the key values and goals of the organisation, whilst paying respect to the land, sky and waters associated with the sport of triathlon.
