11 Dec 2020
QHS Quirindi Clontarf Academy teamed up with Inverell, Moree, Narrabri, Singleton and Oxley Academies to participate in a game of rugby league to celebrate NAIDOC against Farrer Agricultural School.
The five QHS members were Luke and Sam Fechner, Dylan Smith, Rakai De Jong and Malik Hunt. A special mention to Sam Fechner who was named as captain for the Clontarf team.
The day consisted of training, and lunch as a team with plenty of time for the boys to connect and get to know each other.
Before the match, local elder Uncle Joe Craigie spoke to the boys about this years’ NAIDOC theme 'Always was, Always will be,' and presented the boys with their jerseys.
A smoking ceremony and a performance of 'We are one, but we are many,' by Loren Ryan in language started the proceedings which was closely followed by an unfortunately one-sided game with Farrer coming out on top 50-8.
“The boys strung some good plays together and played some good defence but just couldn't break down a well drilled Farrer team. Dylan Smith was able to cross the line and get himself a well-deserved try in the last quarter.
A fantastic effort though by all the boys who showed great Clontarf spirit and pride throughout the whole game,” said Marcus from QHS Clontarf.
A big thankyou goes to Tommy Lars for organising the event, and to all other Academies and staff members who made the trip to make it a successful day for all involved.