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Wednesday 1 October 2003, Media Release

NSW ABORIGINAL RUGBY LEAGUE KNOCKOUT GOES AHEAD IN MAITLAND

Statement from Sam Jeffries Chairman of the NASC and NSWALC Chairperson Les Trindall

A united 2003 NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout carnival will kick off in Maitland over this coming long weekend.

The unified competition will be jointly funded by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services (ATSIS) and the New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC).

New South Wales ATSIC State Council (NASC) Chairperson, Sam Jeffries and NSWALC Chairperson Les Trindall announced the joint funding arrangement today.

Both organisations will fund La Perouse Rugby League and Youth Aboriginal Corporation for the event.

This follows an agreement between La Perouse Rugby League and the Moree Boomerangs Aboriginal Rugby League Club to conduct a unified carnival at Maitland and Kurri Kurri Sports grounds 1 and 2 respectivly from 4-6 October.

Over 60 teams are expected to enter, including women and youth teams. Teams are urged to register as soon as possible.

Mr Jeffries and Mr Trindall said both organisations were pleased to assist the unified carnival.

"The NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout is the largest Indigenous event held in NSW each year," they said

"It's not just a sporting event. It is also a significant cultural gathering for families and communities to discuss important business."

The Knockout will promote positive role models and strong family values and will be alcohol free.