The best way to initiate grassroots reconciliation and cross cultural participation in sport is with a bang. Crackers Keenan provided just that when he agreed to conduct a football coaching clinic organised by Mataranka Community Government Council through the Active Australia program.
Located on the Sturt Highway, 100 kilometres south of Katherine, Mataranka has a population of 300 people.
Well known to Territorians, Crackers Keenan does a weekly radio spot with Aboriginal sports presenter, Charlie King.
Crackers agreed to conduct the clinic free of charge.
Well known Aboriginal footballer from Darwin, Michael Spry, agreed to assist at the coaching clinic.
A bus service to collect people from the Jilkminggan Community and return, some 30 kilometres each way, was also donated free of charge.
Staged in July last year, the event was a huge success with over 100 people attending.
“It was a productive cross cultural event with indigenous and non indigenous young people and parents joining together to foster the enjoyment of an active and healthy lifestyle in the company of friends, new and old,” said Council Clerk, Lisa Wain.
Teams have been selected and a competition organised that continues the spirit generated by Crackers.
“The concept of reconciliation through sporting activities is not new, but it is often difficult to attract the participants to an event,” Lisa Wain said.
“The technique of using a well known sporting person as a catalyst to arouse enthusiasm proved highly successful for Mataranka.
“The project is ongoing and the technique will be used in other sports.”
For more information contact Lisa Wain, on (08) 8962 2401
