Sport unites during national reconciliation week

Saturday saw Federal Minister for Sport Kate Lundy celebrate the 2012 NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) week by opening the YMCA Canberra Women's Oztag Competition.

Senator Lundy said the competition was designed to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous women together to promote women's participation in sport, stating "sport is a powerful platform for social inclusion. It encourages people to join in, get active and get involved while driving participation and fostering strong community connections.

"The YMCA Canberra Womens Oztag competition is a great way to mark NAIDOC Week and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

"NAIDOC week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can support reconciliation."

Senator Lundy said the 2012 Women's Oztag Competition would bring more than 100 Indigenous and non-Indigenous women together to promote women's health and community sport.

She added "the Australian Government is committed to promoting community participation and supports successful national programs like Oztag that engage the grassroots.

"By investing in community participation programs, the Government is harnessing the power of sport to strengthen communities and encourage Australians to lead healthy and active lives.

"The Federal Government will continue to invest in the future of sport in Australia by providing funding to boost community participation and help our elite athletes reach their full potential.

"Sport is an integral part of Australian life and funding for sport benefits all Australians from the grassroots through to the elite level.

"I thank the YWCA of Canberra for their work promoting reconciliation through the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan, a tool developed by Reconciliation Australia."

For more information go to www.naidoc.org.au/

27th August 2011 - POSITIVE SPORTING EXPERIENCES KEY FOR CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT