Community Sponsorships and Donations program helps Dhinawan Boys kick goals in 50th Koori Knockout
A donation from ARTC Inland Rail supported the Dhinawan Boys, a local rugby league team from Toomelah in north-west New South Wales to make a 2,000km round trip to Nowra to play in the 50th Koori Knockout in September.
December 13, 2022
Held in a different location each year, the Koori Knockout is an annual rugby league gathering of First Nations teams from all over New South Wales.
For almost half of the 25 team members, the trip was their first time travelling to the south coast or playing in the Koori Knockout.
Alec Wightman, Toomelah community elder, team manager and player for the Dhinawan Boys said the tournament was like a gathering and provided an opportunity for players to represent Toomelah at a different level.
“We focus on culture and well-being to ensure young ones understand who they are and where they come from. We believe it is important to not just play football but also be strong leaders off the field too,” Mr Wightman said.
“When the young guys are part of the Dhinawan Boys, they play well, work well and have an understanding of where they come from.”
The team progressed through two rounds over the four-day tournament, which attracts more than 30,000 players and spectators and is considered the pinnacle of grassroots Indigenous rugby league.
ARTC Inland Rail is proud to have supported the Dhinawan Boys at the 50th Koori Knockout through our Inland Rail Community Sponsorship and Donations program.
The Community Sponsorships and Donations program offers funding between $1000–$4000 for individuals and organisations in regional areas along the Inland Rail.
Applications for the current round of funding close on January 31, 2023.
We encourage you to check your funding eligibility and apply. Please include as much information as you can to tell the story of what you want to achieve and how it will benefit your community.
Check our Community Sponsorships and Donations program page for more information or contact your local engagement representative who can provide advice and answer any questions:
- Applicants based between Whetstone and Gowrie can contact Belinda Scott-Toms via 0428 079 508 or bscott-toms@artc.com.au
- Applicants based between North Star and Whetstone can contact Emily Louden via 0439 773 413 or elouden@artc.com.au
