Building deadly networks
The University of Newcastle is hosting the National Indigenous Tertiary Education Games and celebrating the 20th anniversary of the games after first being celebrated by just 30 students at what was then the Wollotuka School for Aboriginal Studies.
During a welcoming speech on the first day of competition, competitors paid tribute to a University of Melbourne student and former indigenous student games athlete who died in October 2014 after being attacked in an incident in St Kilda.
Joshua Hardy was originally from Darwin but in his third year of an arts degree with a desire to study law and work with indigenous people.
University of Sydney oral health student, Aiden Potts, spoke of Joshua as his 'best friend' and joined a call for indigenous students at the games to 'build deadly networks'.
"A lot of the students at the games have felt the loss of Joshua but it's very personal for me as I've grown up with him over the last three years."
"It's important that everyone gets to know each other. There's not many of us (indigenous students) so it's important to keep us close together."
Tyson Holloway-Clarke is studying is Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne and is the University's team manager for the student games.
"This is a unique opportunity to get over 500 young indigenous people together in the one place to not only compete but to socialise and make good networks."
In his brief speech, student Tyrone Bean who is studying criminology and sociology at the University of Melbourne player told students to 'meet as many people as you can', "Make deadly networks. As young and proud indigenous leaders we need to build strong networks so we can make a difference in the future."
The National Indigenous Tertiary Education Student Games continue until July 2.
More information:
http://www.unisport.com.au/NITESG/Pages/AboutIndigenousGames.aspx
Photo: L-R Tyson Holloway-Clarke – University of Melbourne, Aiden Potts – University of Sydney, Tyrone Bean – University of Melbourne
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.