Kids program keeps miners connected

MANY families have been kept apart from each other during the COVID-19 pandemic, with video calls playing a crucial role in parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts staying connected.

Two FIFO miners stationed in northern Western Australia, Rob Hobson and Anthony Carroll have taken it a step further, creating the YouTube channel Captain Bobbo – Educational Adventures for Kids.

The program tells the stories and adventures of the titular character and Captain Crabclaw, with a focus on education on important topics such as handwashing and brushing teeth.

Mr Carroll, a geoscientist formally stationed in the Costerfield Mine north-east of Heathcote said he jumped at the chance to get involved when approached by Mr Hobson.

“I was locked away from my family, I’ve got a niece and a nephew who absolutely adore me and I used to spend a lot of time with them,” he said.

“Due to these extended rosters and lockdowns, it was a way for me to connect back to my family.”

Mr Hobson said he was inspired to create his own show after his youngest son started watching an “annoying” American program.

“I had a look for good Australian versions and there wasn’t a lot going on Australia-wise,” he said.

“Content wise, I was just trying to keep up with what the youngest was doing in kindie, so the ABCS, numbers, colours, keeping it fun.”

Mr Carroll said he was surprised by how much the show helped him stay connected to his family in Victoria.

“It’s really helped, I haven’t been back to Victoria for almost a year which really sucks because I used to go home every month and see them and hang out but that’s not the case anymore, so it’s helped bridge the gap,” he said.

Mr Hobson said they are always looking for other families to get involved by suggesting ideas and challenges and even filming themselves to be included in the program.