Culture and Connection Kick Off Junior State Cup in NAIDOC week

The 2025 Junior State Cup in Rockhampton kicked off in NAIDOC Week with a celebration of culture, connection and community, proudly led by Darumbal Cultural Services and First Nations leaders within the touch football family.

On Thursday, Darumbal Cultural Services welcomed players, families and officials with a special cultural performance, weaving stories and dance into the heart of the tournament’s opening.

This year local artist Brandon Butler, a Darumbul man, has designed the artwork for the Junior State Cup medals, which will be presented at the conclusion of the event. 

Prominent First Nations advocate, women’s sport champion, and Australian representative Bo De La Cruz is also on the ground at Junior State Cup, coaching the BMTA 12 Boys Red team this year. Speaking in her post game interview on day one, Bo spoke passionately about how everyone can celebrate NAIDOC week “I encourage everyone to go to your local community event it is a welcoming place” she said.

“NAIDOC week is such a warm celebration of our people” she continued.

Bo went on to encourage participation in touch football from everyone across the community. “We need more players from all communities, touch football is a great team sport” she said.

Day one of Junior State Cup was filled with energy and excitement as players took to the fields for their opening round games, carrying with them the spirit of connection.

Queensland Touch Football thanks Rockhampton Regional Council and Darumbal Cultural Services for sharing their culture with our attendees and encourages everyone to reflect on the significance of NAIDOC Week while enjoying the fun across the fields.