Thousands turn out for Koori Knockout

By PETER ROWE

Walgett Aboriginal Connection retained the Koori Knockout with a 46-12 win over Nanima Common Connection thanks to NRL stars Will Kennedy and Ben Barba.

Walgett is a small community in the far west of New South Wales.

“I’ve been waiting a long time for this, to get into a grand final, but to win one … it’s the best,” Kennedy told ABC.

Recently retired Penrith star Tyrone Peachey opened the scoring with a try from his own grubber kick for NCC before Kennedy responded a few monists later. WAC then scored another three tries in the first half.

Walgett wrapped up the championship with further tries before NCC scored late as Walgett finished 46-12 winners.

The four-day event in Bathurst, Wiradjuri Country, saw 140 mens and women’s teams take part with thousands turning out to support.

The women’s first-grade final saw the Redfern All Blacks beat Bourke 22-4.

Wiradjuri Elder Aunty Shirley Scott said she loved to see the connection with the next generation at the Koori Knockout.

“It’s teaching them part of the culture, what culture is all about, you know, song and dance and being together,” she said.

RESULTS:

Men’s first grade:

WAC 46 – NCC 12

Women’s first grade:

Redfern 22 – Bourke 4

Under 17 boys:

La Perouse 22 – Bundjalung 0

Under 17 girls:

Mindaribba 10 – Waterloo 14 (golden point try victory)

Under 15 boys:

Mindaribba 16 – Narwan 4

Under 15 girls:

Newcastle Yowies 26 – CW Maliyan 4

Under 13 boys:

Queanbeyan 26 – La Perouse 10