Today marks the beginning of NAIDOC Week, and we’re proud to acknowledge and celebrate the First Nations people within our club and wider community.
This year’s theme, 50 Years Deadly, celebrates five decades of NAIDOC Week honouring culture, resilience, truth and the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It recognises the Elders, leaders, artists and communities who have shaped this movement, while looking ahead to the next generation who will continue to lead with strength and pride.
As part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations, we’re incredibly proud to unveil our new First Nations guernseys. With both Senior Women’s teams having a bye next weekend during NAIDOC Week, the guernseys were proudly worn in Friday night’s matches (3 July), allowing our players to celebrate and recognise the occasion on the field.
Made possible by a $4,500 grant from First People Assembly of Victoria, the original artwork was designed by Toneya Kennedy, a proud Barkindji woman, celebrating culture, community and connection through a uniquely meaningful design.
Before Friday night’s games, Teegan Brown, sister of Senior Women’s player Jaydah Hope, officially presented the guernseys to both teams. Teegan played a key role in securing the funding that made the project possible and was instrumental in bringing the guernsey design to life. She also spoke to the players about the significance of the artwork, sharing the stories and meaning behind the design and what it represents.
These guernseys are more than just a uniform, they are a symbol of recognition, connection and our club’s ongoing commitment to celebrating First Nations culture and creating an inclusive community where everyone belongs.
A special thank you to Teegan Brown and Micaela Hanlon for their work in securing the funding that brought these incredible guernseys to life.
This NAIDOC Week, we encourage our entire St Mary’s community to take the time to listen, learn and celebrate the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
SMFNC 