On 26 - 30 June, Monash University Clayton campus hosted the 27th annual Indigenous Nationals.

More than 500 students gathered in Naarm to experience a week of amazing cultural experiences and fierce competition across four sports.

To celebrate the Cultures of all participants and to welcome visitors to Narrm, mob gathered at the centre of campus for a warm introduction from Aunty Di Singh (William Cooper Institute; Elder-in-residence), a Welcome to Country from Aunty Zeta Thomson, as well as performances from Aboriginal dance group Bandok Tati and First Nations musician Kee’Ahn.

Proudly, the Monash team won in netball, and also secured the Spirit of the Games Award, which is awarded to the university team that displays the best spirit and sportsmanship throughout the event. This award was a true testament to the Monash students' comradery, team work and companionship they displayed while representing Monash throughout the week.

“We were delighted to welcome all First Nations participants, spectators and community members to the 27th Indigenous Nationals, this week at Monash University. The Indigenous Nationals provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talents of Indigenous students from Monash, as well as those from universities and communities across Australia. As outlined in our Strategic Plan, Impact 2030, Monash is strongly committed to fostering a society that recognises, respects and celebrates Indigenous peoples, cultures and knowledges.

We see hosting this week-long event as a way to contribute to this commitment. We share long-standing connections with many Indigenous communities throughout Australia, and are extremely proud of our ongoing contributions to strengthening communities and building better futures for First Nations peoples.

Well done to our two participating Monash teams and to all students for their efforts this week.” Said Tristan Kennedy, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) and proud Noongar Aboriginal man.

Monash Team 1 placed 9th and Monash Team 2 placed 26th overall. Congratulations to The University of Queensland who was crowned winners of the 2023 Indigenous Nationals. Monash will continue to be leaders involved in this event as we pass the boomerang onto the University of Wollongong for the 2024 games.

Written by Monash Sport