Pictured above, the Koori Knockout is currently happening in Tamworth, New South Wales! This iconic annual Indigenous rugby league tournament welcomes a record-breaking 170 junior and senior teams, competing in both men’s and women’s divisions. In the 1960s, six young blackfellas met at the Clifton Hotel in Redfern. Inevitably, from that meeting, they launched a tournament that has since blossomed into the largest annual gathering of Aboriginal people in all of Australia. More than just a showcase of sporting excellence, the event has evolved into a powerful celebration of culture, identity and social justice.
The very first Koori Knockout hit the ground running back in 1971. It was held over the New South Wales Labour Day long weekend and featured seven teams. Over the years, it has increased by leaps and bounds, establishing itself as a shining light of hope and opportunity for Indigenous participants. This unique tournament is completely organized and governed by the community. It showcases the teamwork behind the magic that leads to success on and off the field.
In 2023, Walgett won the championship title. Now, they’re intent on completing a hat-trick of victories following their 2022 win! Former NRL player and current boxing promoter George Rose has taken the reins of the Walgett team this year. Today’s NRL superstars often enter the competition through playing in their local community teams. It’s a unique element that enhances the experience for players and fans on both sides.
Cody Walker, the exciting playmaker for the South Sydney Rabbitohs has become one of rugby’s biggest stars over recent years. As a player for New South Wales in State of Origin, he proudly puts his heritage on display. Reflecting on his experience, he stated:
“Yeah I am- 2011 in Bathurst, which was a huge highlight of my career. And… gunning for another over the next couple of years, which will hopefully happen.” – Cody Walker
The tournament is about more than athletic rivalry. It has become an avenue to achievement for countless Indigenous men and women. Ronald Griffiths, coach of the New Zealand Warriors women’s team in the NRL and a past winner of the Koori Knockout, highlighted the event’s significance:
“It’s a really important time of the year for our people. And we spoke about the founding members previously. And I think the boys alluded to the fact that when this started…there’s been so many who’ve been able to leverage this and go on to great things- run their own businesses… people that have gone on to play NRL. And you look at it now- 170 teams participating this weekend.” – Ronald Griffiths
This year’s tournament showcases amazing athletic talent. More than that, it acknowledges the rich contributions of Indigenous people to Australian culture via sports. The great action here is not just single day, but multi-day! Everything culminates in finals on Monday, which you can watch LIVE on NITV and SBS on Demand.
One participant shared their determination:
“We’ll give it our best crack. We’ll give it a red-hot crack. But it’s going to be tough. The target on our back is as big as it can possibly get. Nobody wants to see us win it three in a row. We’d love to do it. Nobody wants to see it.”
This feeling serves as a perfect introduction to the competitive fire that characterizes the Koori Knockout.
