Indigenous sporting carnival confirmed for Torquay

A LARGE-SCALE sporting carnival is on its way to the Surf Coast with hundreds of Victorian footballers and netballers to take part in two days of action.

The 2023 VACSAL Statewide Senior Football Netball Carnival takes place from October 7-8 at Banyul Warri Sporting Precinct on the lands of the Wadawurrung People, inviting Indigenous athletes from all over the state to participate.

VACSAL CEO and Bangerang/Wiradjuri woman Linda Bamblett said the annual carnival provides an excellent opportunity for First Nations athletes to showcase their talents in both football and netball.

“It’s also about bringing together communities from all over the state, it’s not just about sport, it’s a major cultural event that celebrates Aboriginal culture and community as well,” Ms Bamblett said.

The event, put on by the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited (VACSAL) and the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative, will involve 30 teams, 500 participants, and 200 volunteers, travelling from as far as Mildura to Bairnsdale.

Last year’s carnival was held in Northcote and the event has been held on Wadawurrung country in the past, but it is the first time the carnival will be held in Torquay.

“VACSAL understands the impact state-wide sporting events play in the Aboriginal community, contributing to cultural, social and emotional well-being and providing opportunities for community development,” Ms Bamblett said.

“It is acknowledged that sport and recreation are fundamental elements of Aboriginal lifestyle, and that sport has a positive impact on health, culture, and wellbeing.

“The talent spectators will see at the carnival is just amazing, we’ll also have a couple former Indigenous AFL players and former top-tier netballers there too – it’s just amazing to be a part of.”

A State Champion team will be crowned at the conclusion of the weekend in both sporting codes.

Entry to the carnival is free and the wider Surf Coast community is encouraged to attend throughout all weekend.

For more information on the carnival, head to www.vacsal.org.au