First Nations Round – A great success at the Nest

First Nations Round was a chance to celebrate and acknowledge culture, recognise our
indigenous brothers and sisters, and educate people about the heritage of the land on which
we meet, train and play; all in the spirit of reconciliation.

Proud club member and Ngunnawal person Shaenice Miles was the driving force behind this
incredible club event. With the support of her husband and Eagles player Aidan, she
generously designed our club’s story and components through her art and brought it to life
with training shirts and playing jerseys.

It was a tremendous effort to see the event come together so seamlessly despite challenging
fixtures across three days. The most special feature of the event was that a set of jerseys
was arranged for each senior team – a club first for specialty jerseys over the years.

A full explanation of the jersey design can be viewed on Instagram here:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7D2oPFBCe4/?igsh=MW9vOTlzcTJhbWVuNA==

Eagles player Joseph Chapman-Freeman opened the round with an acknowledgement of country on Thursday night prior to the Colts and 3 rd Grade game.

Ngunnawal Elder and grandmother of Shaenice, Aunty Violet, gave a moving welcome to
country on the Friday night which set the tone for what was a truly touching atmosphere at
Nicholls oval.

Shaenice also donated 7 smaller versions of the artwork which served as ‘Best on Ground’
awards for each game, for a player from either club, selected by the match officials.
The Eagles’ canteen was stocked with traditional aboriginal teas and treats, and children in
attendance were given the chance to paint their own boomerang!

To all who helped make this day possible – from our dedicated volunteers and sponsors to
the players and spectators who joined us – thank you. Your support and commitment are
what make our club truly special, and we look forward to many more moments of celebration
and unity in the future.

Special thanks to our First Nations Round sponsors who helped make all of this possible!
Cuz Boxing
Jayzie Photography
NBK Bulung
Next DC
Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (TOAC)
Yara