The Djilang Program was again celebrated in Sir Doug Nicholls Round in 2023, with First Nations children and young people from across Geelong and the South West taking part.
The program, proudly supported by Barwon Water, engaged more than 120 participants in 2023 across its art program and clinics in Geelong and Warrnambool.
This year’s project centred around participants telling their stories through art, decorating star templates which were then featured in Geelong’s Round 11 clash with GWS Giants, featuring on the LED around the ground, as well as in match-day function spaces.
The star templates were taken from Geelong’s 2023 First Nations Guernsey ‘Strength through Unity’, designed by Awabakal woman Michelle Searle.
Participants were also invited to the Cats’ home Sir Doug Nicholls Round clash, with many also taking part in the Guard of Honour as the team ran out, as well as Auskick at half-time.
Seven community organisations were engaged through the program, with several players from Geelong’s AFL and AFLW lists also engaged in the program.
Geelong Cats First Nations Engagement Manager Chloe Wegener thanked all those who participated in and supported the program in 2023.
“It was fantastic to see so many First Nations children and young people connect with our club through the Djilang Program,” Wegener said.
“This year, we brought the program to Kardiniyu – Kardinia Park – on Wadawurrung Country, as well as running a clinic in Warrnambool on Gunditjmara Country during our AFL Community Camp visit.
“It was great to continue that connection and invite participants to our men’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round game day.
“We look forward to unveiling a special installation featuring participants’ artwork when we invite them back again to our AFLW First Nations match.
“We’re grateful to the community groups, players and staff who work so hard to make the program possible, along with the incredible support of Barwon Water.”
Barwon Water chairperson Jo Plummer said Barwon Water was thrilled to be able to support programs that make a difference for First Nations Peoples.
“I think it’s important that organisations like the Cats and Barwon Water really lean into our Traditional Owner values, and together make a difference, because we have the capacity and the resources to do that,” Ms Plummer said.
“I love this year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week, because we have the privilege of walking with our First Nations people to be ‘Be a Voice for Generations’.”