Ararat hosts Culture on Court

Ararat is hosting Culture on Court, with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students coming together from across Western Victoria to participate in an initiative to introduce kids to tennis while also strengthening their connection to culture.

The camp will run this Friday, 14 May at Ararat Tennis Club and aims to bring together community, cultural and sporting groups to support and guide young First Nations children through their journey on and off the court.

Anglicare Victoria Manager of Indigenous Programs David Law would love to see a big turnout for this Friday’s event held at the Ararat Tennis Club.

“All Aboriginal students and Co-operatives across Western Victoria are invited to take part - it’s truly a program for Aboriginal people, led by Aboriginal people,” said Mr Law.

The day will kick off with a Welcome to Country, followed by a Smoking Ceremony conducted by Uncle Ian Goolagong and Auntie Kellie Hunter.  Everyone will join in a ‘Long Walk’ around Alexandra Oval, followed by on-court activities carried out by Tennis Victoria.

“We want to introduce children to a game of tennis and what it brings, both socially and mentally, especially the healthy aspects of the sport and it’s also a celebration of Aboriginal culture,” he continued.

“More importantly, I want them to know there is a strong Aboriginal community and that they are proud people.

“Coming together – be it for sport, art, music – the community is better and stronger together for it. There’s a great sense of connectivity and cohesion when people come together.” 

Culture on Court brings together several community and sporting group including Tennis Australia, Tennis Victoria, The Long Walk Foundation, Lions Club Ararat, Victoria Police, Ararat College and Ararat Rural City Council.

“The Buldau Yioohgen Academy was created in Ararat five years ago and now runs nationwide,” Mr Law added.

“It’s the first time we’re holding an event like this and if successful, we’ll look to organise more in the future. The program has roots in this region and wanted to bring it back to where it all started.

“Ararat Rural City Council and Ararat Tennis Club have been very welcoming, and we appreciate their embrace of the Aboriginal culture.”

Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said we are extremely fortunate to have an extremely strong and rich Aboriginal cultural heritage in Ararat.

“We’re proud to support an initiative that uses sport as a vehicle to promote wellbeing and leadership that brings the community together,” said Dr Harrison.

“Our community is intrinsically tied to sport and the influence of our first Australians - starting with the creation of the Australian rules football competition, which was inspired by the traditional marngrook game in Moyston, through to the present day where indigenous Australians astonish with their feats on the sporting field. 

“Programs like this are important to help young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make connections through sport that builds confidence and strengthens our community.”

Developed by The Long Walk and Anglicare Victoria, the Buldau Yioohgen Academy brings together community, cultural and sporting groups to support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as they strive towards their educational, employment and leadership goals.