Prize lands in his court

A Pilbara youngster is kicking goals after being picked as the winner of an Indigenous corporation’s annual football design competition.

Nullagine’s Sylvani Colley, 7, incorporated a glowing sunset and a kangaroo in his submission to the contest, which also involves eight remote communities including Kiwieekurra, Kunawarritji, Punmu, Warralong, Parnngurr, Jigalong and Parnpajinya.

The comp, established to celebrate the talents and skill of the Martu people, was launched during term three of school and saw more than 58 entries from across the region submitted.

Sylvani’s winning design was immortalised on an AFL ball which debuted at the 2020 Martu Youth carnival in Nullagine, a multi-sports competition event held for the Western Desert region to create sporting pathways for the local youth.

Ngurra Kujungka Indigenous Sports officer Adam Norton visited Nullagine to present Sylvani, right, with his prize.

“Sylvani was ecstatic,” he said. “Although the football is barely recognisable now as it has been getting kicked every day.”

Mr Norton said the competition was a significant event for the Martu community, especially during what has been a challenging year.

The pandemic posed serious health risks for Aboriginal communities as many were faced with being shut-off from essential services and community providers during the height of the crisis.

“After COVID-19 the impact had been tremendous for the Martu,” he said. “They were fantastic during the whole pandemic and took it very seriously. It (the comp) is a celebration of their hard work and commitment.”

Swan Districts Football Club, West Coast Eagles, WAFC, Softball WA and Basketball WA are involved in the event and use the contest as a chance to scout for talented youth.