Gold Coast SUNS’ players Roland Ah Chee, Rex Liddy and Liam Patrick visited Currumbin Junior Surf Lifesaving Club on Wednesday to promote multicultural and indigenous beach safety and culture.

The three young indigenous stars joined Queensland Minister for Child Safety and Sport Phil Reeves, Ironwoman Champion Hayley Bateup and members of the Gold Coast Titans in spreading the message of surf safety to Milpera State High School students.

Aged between 11 and 14 years, the students’ school is attended by newly arrived refugees, unfamiliar with the local beaches.Like GC SUNS’ player Liam Patrick, who was born and raised in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, a number of kids attending the day were from landlocked states and even countries, highlighting the increased need for understanding how to stay safe at the beach.

The GC SUNS understand the importance of beach safety, with their players completing their Bronze Medallions as part of preparation for life on the Coast.Roland Ah Chee said growing up around the water, he was always fairly confident at the beach. He had a simple message for the kids, who were worried they would find themselves in difficult situations. He said he’s never had any trouble because he always swims between the flags.

Rex Liddy explained that although the beach is potentially dangerous, it can also be a helpful place for a professional athlete, explaining the importance of being active and using the ocean to recover his body after a game.