Proud moment of unity rests in its own league

THE first All-Stars match in 2010 was the highlight of my rugby league career.

For it to be returning to its spiritual home on the Gold Coast tonight is a genuinely emotional moment for me.

The first game remains a highlight of my life not because of the match itself, but because of what it meant to so many people, the conversations it started and the difference that it made. The spirit of reconciliation and understanding was so strong you could almost touch it.

As with the Commonwealth Games, the Gold Coast community opened its arms and embraced visitors from far and wide. I am certain we will feel that again when our city celebrates different cultures with a decade of All-Stars.

The support of non-indigenous players and community members made the first game a special celebration on its own.

Wayne Bennett’s commitment to coach the NRL Allwill

Stars, with the backing of Darren Lockyer and Cameron Smith, gave extra depth of meaning to the game.

It was a joyous occasion and people left the ground with a renewed sense of hope of where we were headed – together.

I realised that the support from the indigenous mob was not just for me, or even the team.

There was a sense of pride that we were representing them, and that the game had recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the special relationship we have with rugby league.

I also realised that we were representing those who had gone before us, and fulfilling their dreams.

That is the spirit the players

take on to the field at Cbus Super Stadium. That spirit will give them the strength to take on the New Zealand Maori.

The Maori are a team with equal pride in their own family and culture.

People at the game will experience the famous haka. The indigenous boys will respond with their own dance that they have created in recent years.

It is always a spine-tingling moment as all the players, and all of that emotion, come together in a display of pride.

I am proud to have played a part in this special occasion and prouder still that the people of the Gold Coast get the chance to share and be part of this incredible night.

Ten years on, we are still walking together.

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