QUT will host the 2022 Indigenous Nationals Competition. The announcement was made by UniSport and the Wollotuka Institute following the successful 2021 games held in Newcastle.
The Indigenous Nationals were established in 1996 by the Wollotuka Institute and the University of Newcastle and has since been supported by UniSport Australia (UniSport), bringing together Indigenous Australian students and staff from across Australia.
QUT Pro-Vice Chancellor (Indigenous Strategy), Angela Barney-Leitch said QUT was delighted at securing the hosting rights for the 26th Indigenous Nationals in Queensland.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to the lands of the Turrbal and Yugara people on which QUT stands. This event will present an opportunity for us to share and celebrate our culture together as Indigenous Australians from across the nation,” Ms Barney-Leitch said.
“QUT has a long history as competitors in the Indigenous Nationals but this will be our first time as host.
“Through our partnership with the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health and their nationally recognised ‘Deadly Choices’ brand, QUT will aim to deliver a high-quality sporting event which prioritises health and wellbeing, and social connectedness amongst participants and within the community.”
QUT Nationals team member Georgia Anderson said the 2021 Unisport’s Indigenous Nationals competition was a fun, competitive and spirited event.
“It was a privilege to play for QUT, I have made some incredible friendships not only within my own team, but with other university students from all over Australia,” Ms Anderson said.
“I am beyond excited for QUT to host next year, bringing the spirit of the games and opportunities for new friendships to our own home courts."
UniSport CEO Mark Sinderberry said he is thrilled with the opportunity this presents Indigenous university students.
“UniSport is extremely pleased with the decision for QUT to host Indigenous Nationals in 2022,” Mr Sinderberry said.
“QUT’s history as competitors at the event and commitment to sport for Indigenous Australian students will create a high-quality sporting event prioritising health and wellbeing, and social connectedness within the community and among participants.”
For more information on Indigenous Nationals, visit unisport.com.au/indigenous-nationals
QUT Media contact:
Niki Widdowson, 07 3138 2999 or n.widdowson@qut.edu.au
After hours: Rose Trapnell, 0407 585 901 or media@qut.edu.au.
