Far North Queensland communities recently came together in a four-day program of cultural and sporting events.
The Arthur Beetson Foundation Future Immortals Tour made stops in Hope Vale, Cooktown, and Wujal Wujal, offering locals the opportunity to engage with over 20 former NRL players.
The Tour was organised through a collaboration between Gungarde Community Centre, Hope Vale Foundation, My Pathway, and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council.
The events included school visits, cultural ceremonies, training sessions, and a community football match.
My Pathway Associate Director, Darren Spencer, said the Tour had been an effective way to connect the community and inspire participation.
"We hoped locals would get behind the Tour and be inspired by some sporting heroes, they came out in droves and made the most of the opportunity to showcase their communities and culture," he said.
"To ensure the impacts are long-lasting, and we're speaking with the community about which activities were most valuable."
"For me, seeing so many young people who were eager to participate in the training drills, community match or as water runners shows bright possibilities for the region."
Local sixteen-year-old, Lincoln Raleigh, said that participation was key and his decision to get involved in a community footy match meant he got an invite to compete in the Murri Carnival later this month.
"I simply just love playing football. So, any chance I get for a game I'm up for it," said Lincoln.
"I was pumped to play alongside professionals in front of a home crowd. After the game, Brad Beetson asked if I wanted to come play in the Murri Carnival where I'm looking forward to meeting new people and participating in a tough competition."
"It can really pay off to give things a go and participate, and I hope other young people in our community will keep getting involved when they can."
During the four-day event, the players divided into groups to participate in smoking ceremonies, school and community interactions, cultural activities, coaching clinics, exhibition matches, and fundraising activities.
Some of the notable players involved were Preston Campbell, Willie Tonga, Donald Malone, Mark Tookey, Ben Roberts, and Reni Maitua, among others.
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A post shared by Reni Maitua Fuimaono (@renimaitua)
The event also has financial support from Gungarde Community Centre, Hope Vale Foundation, My Pathway, and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council.
These organisations are now exploring the possibility of organising a similar event in 2024. Additionally, they are actively involved in implementing the Community Development Program in the region, which is fully funded by the Australian government.
