The Sharks celebrated the rich history and culture of First Nations people last week by embracing various NAIDOC initiatives, including hosting a powerful staff learning activity at Kurnell.
The club also had a presence at a vibrant NAIDOC community gathering at Cronulla's Gunnamatta Park and the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence's NAIDOC Community Day, while a group of Indigenous youth were special guests at training and Friday's NRL game against the Wests Tigers.
This year's NAIDOC Week (July 7-14) theme was 'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud', a nod to the enduring strength and vitality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians – the oldest living cultures in the world.
On Monday, staff met at Kurnell – home of the Gweagal people of the Dharawal nation where the Sharks live, work and play – for an educational bush walk organised by Sharks NRLW star and Indigenous Programs Coordinator Jada Taylor.
The Sharks were guided by local Elder Aunty Calita Murray, who provided a detailed cultural account of the area and explained what occurred when Indigenous Australians first encountered British settlers in Kamay (Botany Bay).
After observing a range of informational plaques and landmarks, the group shared lunch while reflecting on Australia's past and and looking towards a united future.
Taylor and the Sharks Have Heart team attended a NAIDOC community event, run by the Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation and Sutherland Shire Council, featuring workshops and performances from First Nations artists on July 11.
Reefy the mascot was present, helping with Sharks giveaways.
As part of the NRL's Project Pathfinder – a partnership with the NSW Police and Youth Justice NSW aimed at supporting at-risk teenagers from regional areas – the Sharks hosted Indigenous kids at the captain's run session on Thursday.
Coming from Bathurst, Kempsey, Queanbeyan and Orange, the kids were delighted to mingle with some of their NRL idols. They had the added experience of cheering the Sharks to Friday's 58-6 win over the Tigers at PointsBet Stadium.
Attending the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence’s NAIDOC Community Day at Redfern on Friday, Taylor engaged in 'Fit and Deadly' activities, including a rugby league clinic, and shared her story with a large audience, covering her inspiration to play the game, role models and proudest on-field moments.
"With NAIDOC Week being a time to reflect, educate and celebrate, it was an honour to represent the club in a range of cultural activities," said Taylor, a proud Gamilaroi woman who balances her NRLW commitments with tireless work in the Indigenous space.
"All year round, the Sharks are committed to helping build a united future as we recognise the survival, strength and culture of First Nations people."
