Future Indigenous rugby league stars take to the field

Minister for Sport Steve Dickson attended the Arthur Beetson Foundation Corporate Culcha Gala in Ipswich last night as the 2012 Murri Rugby League Carnival was officially opened.

Mr Dickson said the Newman Government was pleased to support the four-day carnival with $10,000 in sponsorship for the Arthur Beetson Shield.

“This annual carnival honours Indigenous Queensland rugby league greats, both past and present, and allows the next generation of talent to take to the field”, he said.

“Events like this are vital to encourage more Indigenous and Torres Strait Islanders to get involved in sport, recreation and physical activity.

“The Arthur Beetson Foundation does a fantastic job organising the Murri Carnival and promoting rugby league to young Indigenous people.”

The four-day carnival consists of three competitions: open men’s team division competing for the Lionel Morgan Cup, under 15 team division competing for the Arthur Beetson Shield, and a women’s team division competing for the Yvonne O’Neill Plate. 

Representative teams will be selected from each division to play corresponding New South Wales representative teams. 

The open men’s and under 15 representative teams will also tour the United States and Papua New Guinea.

“I’m determined to get all Queenslanders more active more often,” Mr Dickson said.

“The Newman Government is delivering this by supporting Queensland families and grassroots sport and recreation clubs through our $18 million Get in the Game initiative.  

“Through three new funding programs we will provide clubs with better services and facilities and give children who might not otherwise be able to afford it, or who would benefit from, the opportunity to play sport.

“Our local focus could also inspire some of our future sporting stars. Students as young as 10 years old going to school today will be eligible to compete at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.”

[Ends] September 29, 2012

Media Contact: Anna Hilton 0408 191 192