A group of Gunnedah-based youngsters took part in the annual Koori Knockout rugby league event, held at the Tamworth-based Riverside Sporting Complex from October 3 to 6.
The Gomeroi Roos U13 boys, U15 girls (pictured) and U17 girls teams contained a Gunnedah contingent as well as players from Narrabri, Boggabri, Walgett, Tamworth, Singleton, Sydney and Maitland.
More than 160 teams across all divisions took part, with local teams including the Roos, Red Chief Warriors, Kamilaroi Galamaays, Quirindi Grasshoppers and Tamworth Crows while other teams travelled from Moree, Sydney, Newcastle, Dubbo, Kempsey and Walgett.
With the Gunnedah quartet of William Long, Hunter Scott, Jax Suey and Leo Henry, the Roos U13 boys began with a 20-4 win against Darkinjung Waters before losing their second match 20-0 to Mighty Maliyans.
Gomeroi’s U15 girls team included the Gunnedah quintet of Charli Hobden, Harlow Suey, Marnee Walters, Sophie Gardner and Olivia Lewington, with this team showing outstanding teamwork and resilience.
The U15 girls won their opening match 12-0 against the Koori Warriors, before bowing out with a defeat in their next fixture.
With Gunnedah trio Latarsha Reid, Shiloh Moore and Tyla Hinchcliffe in the team, the Gomeroi U17 girls played with heart and determination but were eliminated with a first-up defeat.
Another Gunnedah teen, Keaton Walters, represented the Koori Warriors in the U17 boys.
Keaton described the experience as “a true privilege”, after his experience was made memorable by meeting cousins for the first time and building new family connections.
With Keaton’s teammates coming from areas such as Dubbo, Lightning Ridge, Tamworth, Peak Hill, Narromine and Nyngan, the Warriors won their first match 8-4 after Keaton scored a try.
In their second match, the Warriors went down to a strong Sydney Next Generation team.
Gomeroi Roos Culture & Sports Association spokesperson Pjay Morley-Bell said several of the Gunnedah youngsters had previously played in the Knockout, and continued to develop and grow each year both on and off the field.
Mr Morley-Bell said the Roos teams brought together “a strong and connected representation of communities across Gomeroi Country and beyond”.
“All matches were played in great spirits, with players showing respect, culture, and sportsmanship,” he said.
“The sense of unity and pride across all teams was incredible.”
Mr Morley-Bell said a major highlight for the Roos was fielding two girls’ teams, “showcasing the incredible talent and bright future of women’s rugby league in our communities”.
“The U13 boys’ first win and the U15 girls’ strong opening victory were also standout moments,” he said.
“Seeing players from different towns connect and play together as one was something truly special.
“The Koori Knockout is more than a football carnival — it’s a cultural gathering that brings together families, Elders and youth to celebrate identity, pride and connection through sport.
“We’re incredibly proud of all our players for the way they represented the community — respectful, united, and strong in culture and spirit.”
Mr Morley-Bell thanked the sponsors and the Gomeroi Roos committee for their work.
