Hockey hits the Wheatbelt in Festival of fun

As part of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ Country Sport Enrichment Scheme grant, Hockey WA – and top-quality hockey - headed to Northam for the Wheatbelt Festival of Hockey on Saturday.

The event not only showcases high-level hockey, sporting clinics and more, it also provided deep cultural connections and opportunities.

Proceedings commenced with a cultural experience at the Bilya Koort Boodja Centre for Nyoongar Culture and Environmental Knowledge in the heart of Northam by the Avon river. Elder Frank Davis shared some yarns and his experiences with Hockey WA figures, whilst conducting storytelling through his digeridoo playing.

On a cold and wet day, the yarns by the fire pit provided a warm and enlightening experience for attendees, with Mr. Davis sharing some laughs along the way. The Bilya Koort Boodja Centre also has an educational exhibition on offer, recognising the rich Aboriginal and environmental presence in the Nyoonagr Ballardong region, whilst celebrating and sharing the culture of the Nyoongar people. The amazing exhibition provided an interactive experience for all, with virtual yarns and an immersive layout marvelled by all.

Nearby at Northam Hockey Field, residents of Northam were given the opportunity to experience high-level hockey coaching and an All Flags Premier League fixture between the men’s Old Guildfordians Mundaring and WASPs sides. Clinics and skills games were conducted for the budding young hockey stars of Northam, with All Flags Premier League players providing high-level coaching and fun for the kids.

Umpires were given the opportunity to enhance their skillset, with Hockey WA Umpire & Officials Development Coordinator Angela Edwards providing an Umpiring Briefing and Q&A.

The All Flags Premier League fixture between OGMHC and WASPs gave locals the opportunity to feast on high-level hockey first-hand at their home ground of Northam Hockey Field. In wet and wild conditions, WASPs came out on top, winning 5-1 in a strong outing and providing plenty of goals for fans to feast on.

For the hockey-crazy, following the All Flags Premier League match-up, second division teams met, providing a jam=-packed festival of hockey for all.

The Wheatbelt Festival of Hockey was delivered by Hockey WA thanks to support from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.