A GROUP of Myall Coast teens recently performed with the Bloodline Sistas Koori Dance Group at the All-Stars Rugby League competition held in Newcastle.

The week-long event, which celebrated Rugby League’s commitment to Indigenous Australia, concluded with the Indigenous All Stars versus the World All Stars match at McDonald Jones Stadium.

The Bloodline Sistas took to the field in front of a packed stadium to proudly welcome the players onto the Traditional Lands through dance and song.

Karuah dancer Leah Slockee, who was dancing with the group for the first time, said she thoroughly enjoyed the performance which was a celebration of her culture.

“It was a great experience and a whole lot of fun, it was so good being involved in an event alongside so many talented people,” Leah said.

“Learning traditional dances and being able to share them with such a large audience was definitely one of the highlights.”

The night kicked off with an awe-inspiring Indigenous war cry led by Greg Inglis, setting the tone for the All Stars matches.

The dance group cheered the men’s and women’s Indigenous teams who easily defeated the World All Stars in both games.

Leah told News Of The Area it was inspiring to watch the Indigenous teams during the competition games.

“Seeing Greg Inglis and Johnathan Thurston play was amazing, they have so much experience and talent between them,” she said.

“It was also good to see so many women involved, hopefully it shows others what can be achieved when you put your mind to it.”

The Bloodline Sistas is an Aboriginal Dance Group with members proudly belonging to the Worimi Nation.

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN