Dreamtime AFL clash celebrates indigenous links MURRAY WENZEL THE CAIRNS POST MAY 24, 2014 8:15AM BE THE FIRST TO RESPOND DREAMTIME: North Cairns Tiger Dwayne Bosen and Cairns City Lion Maxwell Luke model the specially-made team guernseys for today’s Dreamtime by the Sea clash at Holloways Beach. Bosen’s brother designed Norths’ strip, which reflects the land, watering holes and traditional dance of their people while the Lions’ incorporates both the Aboriginal and Torres Strait flags. Source: News Limited EVERY time Maxwell Luke runs on to the field, he is playing for family and friends back home in Kowanyama. So today, wearing a uniform that celebrates the indigenous contribution to Australian rules, the Cairns City Lions newcomer will be in his element. Luke’s Lions will take on Dwayne Bosen’s North Cairns, with both teams boasting talented indigenous players. Coined Dreamtime by the Sea, the annual fixture is a precursor to the Dreamtime at the G match between traditional rivals Richmond and Essendon next Saturday. “It’s going to be a highlight for me, the first time I’ve played in this game and the first time I’ve played against Dwayne,” said the Lions wingman, who returned this season after a stint with Victoria’s Rumbalara Football Club. “Back home in Kowanyama I know they are so supportive of me to keep playing footy and I’m proud to represent them. It’s about honouring our people past and present.” It has been a big week for the pair, having played for the Indigenous-South Pacific side against the Cairns All Stars on Wednesday night. “I was so proud of the boys for how they played,” representative co-captain and Norths stalwart Bosen said. “And proud to be part of it and walk out there in that team.” Bosen, who has worked for AFL Cairns and AFL Cape York since moving from Mapoon in 2008, said there were no problems with racial attacks during local games, unlike issues currently plaguing the AFL. ‘Everyone just plays; it doesn’t matter what colour your skin is,” Bosen said. Bosen’s brother designed the Norths guernsey while Lions’ coach Marc Harbrow had a hand in theirs. The kits will be auctioned after the game. Indigenous band Home Grown and contemporary indigenous dancers Biddigal will perform. Traditional indigenous meals will be served with funds raised going to Relay for Life. It is an important clash in a football sense too with the Lions eyeing off the Tigers for fourth spot. “We really need this game; we just have to believe in ourselves,” Luke said. They play today at Holloways Beach, while Saints host the Hawks at Griffiths Park and Souths will get a serious test from Port Douglas at Fretwell Park, all from 3pm
Posted on: Sun, 25 May 2014 02:49:00 +0000
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