Touch proving a vehicle of change

MORE than 160 talented young touch footballers will travel from as far as the tip of Cape York to Surfers Paradise to take part in the Bunburra Indigenous Beach Touch Football Tournament tomorrow.

Bunburra, a Yugambeh word meaning beach, is a grassroots youth engagement program delivered in 18 indigenous communities across Queensland.

The program culminates in a beach-based competition at Main Beach.

The program fosters sporting skills and leadership qualities that reward and motivate young people (aged 14-17).

To earn selection players must have a good school attendance record, be active in their community, be responsible, and stay out of trouble throughout the year.

PCYC Queensland Indigenous Programs general manager Andy Cassidy said one of the ripple effects was participants grew confidence.

“For many participants this is their first ever visit to a city,” she said.

“The teams comprising seven girls and boys each, accompanied by a local team manager, come together to meet in a context that supports pride, identity and achievement to celebrate their indigenous culture through sport, dance and storytelling.”

League legend Petro Civoniceva is the Bunburra event ambassador and is proud of the job PCYC Queensland’s does for young indigenous people.