Under an arrangement introduced in 2006, the AIS plays a leading role in the sport managing the national high performance program in close cooperation with Australian Canoeing and the Slalom Technical Committee.

In partnership with the New South Wales Institute of Sport and Australian Canoeing, the AIS also create opportunities for elite level athletes to achieve international success through the National Centre of Excellence Program at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

The national junior team program is an essential part of the national pathway to success at senior world championships and Olympic Games. The current national senior team and National Centre of Excellence scholarship holders, including our Olympic Medallists, Robin Bell Jacqueline Lawrence and World Cup winner, Kate Lawrence have all progressed through junior team tours, thanks to the support of dedicated managers, coaches and parents.

Since 1999, the sport at all levels has also greatly benefited from increased opportunities for training and competition generously provided by our major partner, Penrith Whitewater Stadium, and I would like to thank the Board of the Stadium and the Manager, Jack Hodge, for their ongoing support.

As members of the 2009 national junior team, I am sure you will continue the trend set by our leading athletes and maximize this opportunity to compete against the best in the world.

On behalf of the AC board I wish you a successful tour!

Greg Doyle

CEO, Australian Canoeing