Some of the AFL's biggest Indigenous names took centre stage at last weekend's VACSAL Statewide Football and Netball Carnival in Melbourne.
This year's event became one of the most star-studded editions of the annual community showcase.
Among those to pull on the boots were Collingwood premiership hero Bobby Hill, Western Bulldogs' Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Richmond small forward Maurice Rioli, former North Melbourne midfielder Tarryn Thomas, and AFL legend Eddie Betts.
They were joined by a host of other well-known names including ex-AFL players Neville Jetta, Jeff Garlett, Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and Derek Eggmolesse-Smith.
Hill and Thomas suited up for the Fitzroy Stars, thrilling crowds with flashes of brilliance.
Hill – the 2023 Norm Smith Medallist – had to seek permission from Collingwood to take part after a challenging season interrupted by personal matters.
The 25-year-old played just 14 AFL games in 2025 and did not feature at senior level beyond Round 21.
Meanwhile, Ugle-Hagan made his first on-field appearance since the Western Bulldogs' elimination final last year, using the carnival to stay sharp ahead of a likely move to Gold Coast, which remains subject to Suns' board approval.
Thomas, who last played AFL in 2023, also returned to the field, drawing plenty of attention from interested fans.
The ex-Kangaroo was shown the door by his club after receiving an 18-game suspension from the AFL due to being found guilty of several breaches of the league's Code of Conduct.
Despite being eligible to return to play – and training with WAFL club Swan Districts during the pre-season – Thomas has not featured at any level of footy for over two years.
For Betts, Jetta and Garlett, their participation represented a continuation of their lifelong commitment to inspiring the next generation.
Their presence – alongside current AFL players – added star power and further highlighted the event's importance.
The carnival, hosted by the Victoria Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited (VACSAL), brought together hundreds of players from across the state to celebrate sport, culture and connection.
The event is recognised as a key date for Indigenous Australian footballers – a chance for players to represent their communities and embrace their culture through footy and netball.
More than just a footy tournament, it was an opportunity for communities to connect and showcase their talent in a culturally safe space.
