From the red dust of the Pilbara to the bright lights of the global stage, Australian Athletics’ new content series Under the Surface, proudly supported by Rio Tinto, shines a light on the stories, people and communities shaping the nation’s athletic future.
In the debut episode, Roots and Rising Stars, the cameras travel to Port Hedland to capture the joy, energy and promise of Athletics for the Outback – a program bringing opportunity and inspiration to regional and remote communities.
For program coach Sam Ajisafe, the rewards are both personal and profound.
“It’s incredibly amazing to see the kids’ joy on their faces and how they get involved and grow. Programs like this open pathways for children who might not otherwise have access to athletics,” he says.
Supported by Rio Tinto, Athletics for the Outback connects children across Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory to world-class coaching and sporting role models. It’s an initiative that builds skills, confidence and community – giving kids in remote regions a chance to dream big.
Local teacher Trent Collins says the impact is immediate and lasting.
“Up here, opportunities for things like this are limited. So when visits like these happen, the kids get right on board – they love it. They look up to people like Sam and are inspired to live healthy, active lives.”
Beyond the Outback, Under the Surface goes behind the starting line with Australia’s best – uncovering the stories that connect grassroots to greatness. In Roots and Rising Stars, marathoner Andy Buchanan, long jumper Sarah Walsh, pole vaulter Kurtis Marschall, and hurdler Liz Clay reflect on the moments that shaped them, and the next generation rising in their footsteps.
“Our performances have been so incredible over the last couple of years,” says Marschall. “That’s because of the amazing junior pathway we’ve got here in Australia. We’ve all come through it – and it’s what’s setting up the next generation for success.”
For Buchanan, the story begins at home – a small local running club, long road trips, and the simple joy of lacing up to run.
“My parents were marathoners, and as a kid, I thought going to a marathon in every city was a normal family holiday,” he laughs. “That’s where it all started.”
And as former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Lee Naylor reflects, the journey from athlete to mentor brings things full circle.
“They ran their race. Now they’re helping others find their lane,” she says.
Through initiatives like Athletics for the Outback, Rio Tinto and Australian Athletics are building stronger communities and nurturing Australia’s future champions – ensuring talent from every corner of the country has the chance to thrive.
Rio Tinto’s partnership goes beyond the field, investing in pathways that will help shape the athletes who represent Australia on home soil at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Programs like this are about more than sport,” says Ajisafe. “They bring people together, connect communities, and give young Australians a sense of what’s possible.”
From small towns to stadiums, Under the Surface celebrates where we come from, who we are, and who we’re becoming together.
Watch Episode 1: “Roots and Rising Stars”
👉 Now streaming on the Australian Athletics YouTube channel HERE
Posted: 24/10/2025
