The inaugural AFL Tri-Series tournament, held in Cairns from August 29 to September 1, 2024, has set a new standard for youth sporting events by seamlessly blending competitive Australian Rules football with vital health education and cultural exchange programs.

Event Highlights

Over 150 young athletes aged 14-16 from Papua New Guinea, Torres Strait Islander communities, Aboriginal communities, and Cairns came together for this groundbreaking event. The tournament showcased not only the athletic prowess of these young players but also their eagerness to learn and share their diverse cultural heritage.

Health and Education Focus

In partnership with AFL House and Local Health Partners played a crucial role in designing comprehensive health education programs for the tournament. These initiatives included:

- Sexual and reproductive health education: Tailored programs promoting peer-to-peer learning on crucial health topics
- Mental health awareness: Sessions addressing issues like loneliness and youth suicide
- Violence prevention: Customised messages on healthy relationships and emotional support

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Cultural Exchange

The event reached its pinnacle with a vibrant cultural showcase, where teams shared their heritage through traditional dance, music, and storytelling. This celebration of diversity highlighted the tournament's commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and respect.

Collaborative Success

The tournament's success was made possible through the collaboration of various partners, including AFL PNG, AFL House, Pasifika Women Alliance, Titans Performance, and the Grass Skirt Project. Sponsors such as the Scanlon Foundation, Torres Strait Regional Authority, and Air Niugini also played vital roles in bringing this vision to life.

Looking Ahead

The overwhelming success of the AFL Tri-Series has set a strong foundation for future events. Recommendations for upcoming tournaments include expanding health education programs, implementing peer mentorship initiatives, and increasing parental involvement.

As we reflect on this landmark event, it's clear that the AFL Tri-Series has not only developed athletic skills but also nurtured future leaders and change-makers. By combining sports with crucial health and cultural education, we've created a model for youth engagement that promises to have a lasting impact on communities across the Pacific region.

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Photo Credit by AFL Cape York.