Clubs unite for Indigenous games

OCEAN Grove Football Netball Club is hoping to make an Indigenous round a permanent part of its fixture after a successful event at the weekend.

In a first for women’s football, and in recognition of Indigenous round, the Ocean Grove senior ladies played on Saturday in a twilight match against Lara.

Following the conclusion of the senior men’s game against Anglesea, all four teams united on the field for a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony to celebrate and acknowledge all indigenous players.

The ceremony was officiated by Corrina Eccles and Norm Stanley, and Lisa Robinson from the club said the sound of the didgeridoo echoing out across the oval was incredibly moving for all players and spectators.

“Tradara Naparula Briscoe, an aboriginal artist from the Northern Territory tribe Anmatyerr, painted a piece of artwork titled Dreaming; Swan, she said.

“This artwork was used to produce the jumpers which were worn on the day.”

Tradara explained the meaning of the painting as a “representation of one’s journey throughout life”.

“The black, white and red circular ring dots symbolises the tribes in which we come from; along with the white lines that represent the connection we have with each other through our strong culture.

“The footprints signifies the journey we have walked and the hardship we have endeavoured and yet continue to stand resilient; along with the outlined swan that embodies the elegance and grace that lays within us.

“Lastly, the U shape represents our ancestors looking over us with guidance and pride.”

The club also wants to schedule more twilight games for the women in future years.

“Overall, the indigenous round was a positive experience for the players, the club and the community,” Ms Robinson said.

The Ocean Grove senior men’s team lost against Anglesea, 7.12.54 to 13.13.91, while the senior women’s team defeated Lara, 12.12.84 to 1.0.6