Members from RAAF Base Williamtown participated in a touch football tournament to celebrate community and connection on Worimi Country in the Port Stephens region.
The Air Force team faced off against worthy opponents including the local Worimi community teams, Port Stephens Police, Port Stephens Council, Emergency Services, and the New South Wales Department of Education. The tournament was held for NAIDOC week and in memory of the late Chief Inspector Tony Townsend.
With the 2024 NAIDOC theme being Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud, RAAF Base Williamtown participants were proud to compete in the event and continue to maintain relationships with the local community in which members work and reside.
RAAF Base Williamtown Indigenous Liaison Officer Flight Lieutenant Coen Henry, a Maraura man of the Barkindji and Wiradjuri Nations, competed with both the Air Force team and Worimi team on the day.
"The ability to pay homage to my mob drives me every day to be my best," Flight Lieutenant Henry said.
"Representing the base at the NAIDOC Touch Tournament shows unity and respect to the Port Stephens community by supporting the Worimi community, as well as honouring the late Chief Inspector Tony Townsend, who was a pioneer of this event that brings community together.
"The community really comes together in solidarity and spirit in honour of the occasion."
RAAF Base Williamtown teams have been competing in this event since 2015, facing stiff challenge and, on occasion, coming home with the championship cup or plate.
Flight Lieutenant Henry felt great pride representing his community and heritage, and the Air Force, at this recent event.
"For me, representing my communities is an opportunity to lead, showcase and honour my Elders and ancestors," he said.
