PORT Stephens Netball Association will host two significant community events at their Raymond Terrace courts in coming weeks.
The association will celebrate its annual Indigenous Round on Saturday 19 July.
Supported by Port Stephens Council, it will commence with a smoking ceremony at the courts in William Bailey Street at 8.30am.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge and elevate the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within the Port Stephens region,” PSNA president Jodi Cassar told News Of The Area.
The day will feature Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stallholders showcasing traditional and contemporary artworks, and cultural activities focused on health, wellbeing and strengthening First Nations communities.
“There’ll also be engagement with local Elders and cultural practitioners fostering connection and understanding,” said the netball stalwart.
Port Stephens Netball Association have also planned a Mental Health and Wellbeing Round on Saturday 16 August.
The association will shine a light on mental health with an inspiring day of sport and awareness under the theme “Together we can make change”.
The day includes community fixtures featuring players and supporters united for wellbeing, with one or two being dunked into the ice baths to help the association raise valuable funds.
There’ll also be fundraising efforts for Talk2MeBro and Jupiter Australia; two vital organisations working to support mental health in the Port Stephens region and beyond, plus activities promoting conversation, connection and self-care through sport.
A determined Jodi said the PSNA hopes to amplify sport and community outcomes across both events.
“We aim to highlight the importance of sporting inclusion and cultural connection plus the role of community sport in mental health promotion and suicide prevention,” she said.
“Another key factor is the power of grassroots partnerships in driving positive change.”
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Round commences with a short opening from 8.45am, with dunking to occur throughout the day.
By Chris KARAS
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