Coinciding with National Reconciliation Week and held across Rounds 11 and 12, First Nations Round recognises the histories, cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the sport of netball and to the nation.
This year’s league artwork, titled ‘Gather as One’, was designed by Gamilaroi woman Krystal Dallinger and combines traditional and modern techniques to share a story of togetherness. The artwork will be showcased across First Nations Round with a custom match ball, umpire uniforms, and centre circle design.
“The story behind the design is that we all come together and share the same love for netball no matter our background or where we came from,” Dallinger said.
The design features an emu, goanna and kangaroo to represent past Elders, and present and emerging leaders.
“The positioning of the animals around the circle is designed to represent the Acknowledgement to Country which begins this journey.
“It is said in many ways and languages, but with every Acknowledgement we are paying respect to our Elders past, present and emerging.
“While I used earth colours, commonly seen in ochre paintings, I also included modern bright colours. This offered a nod to the fact we’re constantly dipping our toes into the modern art scene which presents a wide array of colours, stories and journeys.
“I added a handprint in the centre of the artwork like how it was traditionally put on the walls of caves and on rocks as a way to say, ‘I was here’. I wanted to add a personal touch and used my own hand to leave my print in the world like our Elders did.”
The story of Dallinger’s artwork also ties into the 2023 Reconciliation Week theme of Be a Voice for Generations, encouraging all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in their everyday lives.
All eight clubs will wear specially designed uniforms across First Nations Round, specific to their traditional lands and designed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Netball Australia Director Professor Cheryl Kickett-Tucker AM is delighted to see netball celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, umpires and officials.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have made, and will continue to make, an enormous contribution to our sport.,” Kickett-Tucker said.
“The round sends a powerful message to young First Nations netballers dreaming of playing in the Suncorp Super Netball League and I am looking forward to seeing it grow in the years to come.”
Artwork © Krystal Dallinger
Proud Gamilaroi Woman
‘Gather As One’ 2023
