IT'S a long way from Yam Island to South Africa but it's a journey Jacob Bob can't wait to complete.
Next month the Torres Strait Islander will embark on a two-week South African tour with the indigenous youth Australian rules team, the Flying Boomerangs.
The 15-year-old speedster will be part of 25-man squad that will play two matches against the South Africa Lions and conduct clinics in Mafikeng and Cape Town.
Bob said he had some simple goals for the trip.
"Just having fun," he said.
"It's a good experience, it’s the first time for me going out of Australia and I’m looking forward to it."
Bob grew up on Yam Island before moving to Cairns to attend high school and play for the Redlynch Lions.
AFL Queensland State indigenous programs manager Rick Hanlon said Bob had a huge future if he applied himself.
"He’s the most amazing athlete and he’s just got to realise that and he’s also got to realise that he’s provided with an opportunity to say, ‘I’m a lucky person now and it’s up to me to take the next step which is I’ve got to work hard and I’ve got to commit myself to something instead of just floating along’."
AFL great Michael O’Loughlin will coach the Boomerangs, while Chris Johnson and David Wirrpanda will be assistant coaches.
Hanlon said it would be a big learning experience for Bob.
"I see it as a great opportunity for kids from our area," Hanlon said.
"This fella, he’s from Yam Island and there’s probably never been a Yam Island person play footy on the MCG before, which he did this year.
"He’s setting a standard and pathways for other young kids from Yam Island and other islands in the Torres Strait."
The Boomerangs will depart on their South African tour on January 23.
