What an unforgettable experience for the Kimberley community! Thanks to the support of the AFL and DLGSC, some of the Kimberley’s most dedicated footy volunteers, including KIF/KFAP representatives, had the incredible opportunity to witness the AFL Indigenous All Stars game at Optus Stadium, Whadjuk. For many, this event was deeply personal—a culmination of years of dedication to nurturing talent both on and off the field, as they watched friends and family members proudly take to the field in both the curtain-raiser and the main game.

The AFL Indigenous All Stars game was more than just a match—it was a powerful celebration of culture, community, and opportunity. For the Kimberley, this event represented not only the spirit of the game but also the strength and resilience of its people. The Kimberley stands proudly alongside the Walyalup Football Club (FFC), who have been leading the way in Indigenous football. Walyalup has created pathways for players while staying deeply connected to the Kimberley region. They’ve had the most Indigenous male and female players to have played at an AFL club, which is an incredible achievement for the third-youngest club in the AFL. Their values of respect, unity, and opportunity continue to inspire and uplift communities across the region.

A Weekend Full of Engagement and Opportunities

The weekend was a whirlwind of activities, with plenty of moments to engage, learn, and celebrate.

Friday:
The journey began with the volunteers and Under 16 Kimberley kids attending the Indigenous All Stars open session at Optus Stadium, Whadjuk. It was a special occasion for the next generation to connect with their role models and experience elite footy up close.

Saturday:
The day started with a unique and educational Umpire Education session that incorporated a cultural component, led by Noongar AFL Umpire Joshua James, along with other AFL/WAFC umpires. This session allowed attendees to deepen their understanding of the game while learning about the rich cultural heritage that underpins Indigenous football.

The excitement continued with an electric curtain-raiser followed by the highly anticipated Indigenous All Stars vs. Walyalup Football Club match. Eight Kimberley boys proudly took the field in the curtain-raiser, representing their communities of Wyndham, Kununurra, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing, Beagle Bay, and Broome. It was a proud moment for the Kimberley, with the next generation of footy stars stepping up and showcasing their talent.

Kimberley photographers were front and centre capturing the historic moments of the weekend. Special shoutouts go to Kristy Brittain from the Kununurra Demons and Michael Jalaru Torres, whose impressive resumes include covering the AFL Grand Final in Perth and other major AFL events. Their work truly captured the essence of the weekend.

The Kimberley community came together in full force, filling the grandstands with support and energy. It was amazing to see our mob make the journey to be part of this celebration. New friendships were formed, old connections were rekindled, and the spirit of community was alive in the stands. This is what footy is all about—unity, pride, and shared experiences.

Garnduwa, a proud partner of WA Football, continues to drive change and improve lives through culturally safe sport and health programs. They held a board meeting around the event and were present at the game alongside Kimberley volunteers.

Beyond the game itself, the event was made even more special by the presence of Indigenous businesses, artists, and community leaders. This was not simply a footy match; it was a platform for showcasing culture, leadership, and community-driven initiatives. The AFL Indigenous All Stars game continues to be a powerful celebration of culture, opportunity, and the strength of Indigenous communities.

The weekend reaffirmed the power of football to bring people together, create opportunities, and celebrate Indigenous excellence. The AFL Indigenous All Stars game is a shining example of how sport, culture, and community intertwine to create something truly special.

We can't wait to see what the future holds for our Kimberley footy stars, and we look forward to more opportunities for the community to come together in the spirit of football and culture.