The last time the Yamboora Roos senior men’s team ran out onto the football field, Grant Brown was three years old.
On the weekend, he led the revived Yaegl rugby league team to victory against Githabul’s Muli Warriors in the Three Nations Rugby League Tournament, at the first home game in 30 years.
Touchingly, the game was played on the recently upgraded Raymond Laurie football field in Yamba, which bears the name of Grant’s grandfather.
The weekend’s games in junior, under-17s, men’s and women’s divisions were the first of nine in the Three Nations Rugby League Tournament, between teams from the Yaegl, Bundjalung and Githabul tribes.
Each nation will play host to three rounds at their respective home grounds.
Mr Brown said the tournament held a deeper significance than others might see.
“It’s not just a game of footy, but a rite of passage and a chance to teach the younger generations proud culture and identity,” he said.
“It’s been a great outcome for all of us and it’s bringing everyone in the community together with the opportunity to watch some great footy.”
Clarence Valley Council is a proud sponsor of the Yamboora Roos, providing $3800 from the Sports Tourism Program to support the event.
Clarence Valley Mayor Dr Ian Tiley said these competitions created a large buzz around town, generating a huge economic benefit for the community.
“Support for the tournament was apparent as the enthusiastic crowd gathered to support the first home game in Yamba on 28 January,” Dr Tiley said.
Everyone is invited to the next home games, to be held at Ngayundi Sports Complex at 5.30pm, 18 February against Bundjalung’s Casino All Blacks, and on 25 February against the Muli Warriors.
