Wildcats' cultural awareness session provides inspiration

Wildcats players and staff took part in the session held by Menang Ngundju Noongar leader Collene Castle, and inspirational Nyigina/Nyul Nyul/Banuba woman, Keanu Pinder’s mother Tracey Smith, on Thursday afternoon.

The pair shared their inspiring stories as well as giving an insight into the history of Indigenous Australians and the challenges they’ve had to overcome over the years.

“It’s wonderful and the feedback that we got in the room after, it’s just amazing how many people never knew the Aboriginal history of this country,” Collene said.

Pinder, who was born and raised in Derby among the Nyigina people of the West Kimberley region, spoke about how much it meant to him to have the club invite his mum to share her story to the group.

“It means a lot to me, especially for them to get my mum involved,” Pinder said.

Wildcats head coach John Rillie described the session as insightful and praised the organisation on its approach to Indigenous Round.

“It was very insightful about the history and the things that the Indigenous people have had to deal with,” Rillie said.

“The club, since I’ve been here, the way we approach the Indigenous Round, I think we do a great job with that.”

The Wildcats will wear a special Indigenous jersey on Saturday night, designed by Yilka (Wongutha)/Noongar/Yamatji local artist Roseanne ‘Rosie’ Paine.