Footy and fellowship

A football excursion to Meekatharra has ignited excitement and community spirit.

In a heart-warming display of community spirit, students from Burringurrah Remote Community School (BRCS) recently travelled more than three hours to the local hub, Meekatharra, for a highly anticipated football game.  

Living in a remote community, opportunities for students to compete against others outside of their local area are rare.  

BRCS Educational Assistant, Glenda Sibson said students were over the moon when they found out they would be taking a road trip to play footy out of town. “There was conversation every day among the children, talking about going and who from their families were going,” she said.  

“Police had arranged the donation of footy boots in the weeks leading up to the game.” 

One six-year-old boy was experiencing his first football game.  

Typically a reserved child, he transformed during the car journey.  

“He is a little boy who usually is happy to answer questions, but doesn’t initiate conversations,” explained Mrs Sibson.  

“On this three-hour trip, he chatted the whole way, talking about his country and all the places he recognised along the way - places that are special to his family and what animals he has hunted with his Dad along that road.” 

Upon arriving at the oval, initial feelings of being overwhelmed were quickly replaced by confidence as the children, with gentle encouragement, gave it their best. The endorphins kicked in, and every child walked off the field standing taller, their heads held high with pride. 

The successful execution of the trip was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the BRCS staff.  

In the lead up, as well as ensuring the required permission forms were signed, they also made sure all footy boots were properly sized, and training sessions were conducted with the local police.

Staff provided hearty egg and bacon toasties for the early morning journey, transported students, took on roles such as goal umpire and photographer, and then served as a vocal cheer squad. 

Due to the overwhelming success of this event, BRCS plans to make the football game excursion an annual one.

The school has purchased a bus, set to be delivered at the end of the year, which will facilitate regular participation in football matches in Meekatharra, Cue, and Mt Magnet next season.  

This new addition will significantly ease the logistics, making such events more accessible.