Community and culture celebrated at annual Treaty Cup

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published July 10, 2024 at 11.00am (AWST)

The Koorie Basketball Academy held its third annual Treaty Cup on Sunday, featuring a community and celebrity basketball game.

Wurundjeri woman Aunty Julie Coombes delivered the Welcome to Country, and Ash Dargan performed on the didgeridoo.

Wemba Wemba woman Breanna Lee Wilson sang three songs, energising the crowd, especially with her performance of "TREATY," which had everyone dancing.

Young people in attendance had the opportunity to participate in clinics and a half time game. (Image: Supplied)

The event began with a clinic for young players, followed by a halftime game showcasing the skills of the Academy kids.

Gunaikurnai man and Koorie Academy CEO, Ricky Baldwin said the event's growth highlights how basketball unites the community, culture, and sport.

"It was great to bring community together on the start of NAIDOC week and watching all the mob have a fun day with lots of giveaways with our free raffle," Mr Baldwin said.

"This was the biggest game to date with all the mob attending the game.

"It's growing every year so it's special to watch everyone enjoy the day, using basketball to unite mob, culture and sport."

Koori Academy Allstars celebrate their third consecutive win at the Treaty Cup. (Image: Supplied)

The main event was the Allstars game, with the Koorie Academy Allstars facing Team Treaty.

Ex-AFL star Matty Stokes suited up for the Koorie Academy side, with Yoorrook Justice Commissioner Travis Lovett playing for Team Treaty.

The game featured former NBL and WNBL stars, Hall of Fame coach Brian Kerle, and the father-son duo Alister and Will Thorpe, who featured for Team Treaty.

The Koorie Academy Allstars won, securing their third consecutive Treaty Cup victory.

Jida Cooper, a Koorie Academy coach, was named MVP for the Allstars, while Mara Lovett Murray earned the MVP title for Team Treaty.

The Koorie Academy Community Awards for Outstanding Commitment to Community were presented to Aunty Jill Gallagher and Aunty Evajo Edwards.

   Related   

   Joseph Guenzler   

Download our App

@natindigtimes
Article Audio

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.

National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.