The significance of the Koori Knockout: A modern-day corroboree

The NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout, also known as the Koori Knockout, stands as one of the most significant events for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Held annually over the October long weekend, the event is a celebration of culture, community and competition.

Each year, more than 100 teams from men's, women's, and junior divisions compete in one of rugby league's showpiece events.

Its significance extends beyond the playing field.

The Koori Knockout is a powerful demonstration of pride, unity and resilience, offering a platform to showcase emerging talent, while also fostering connections among First Nations communities.

This year’s event will be held in Bathurst at the Hereford Street Sporting Precinct on Wiradyuri country on 4-7 October.

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Hosted by the 2023 champions, Walgett Aboriginal Connection, the Knockout unites families, elders, and young people and is often described as a modern-day Corroboree, a historical term referring to a meeting place for First Nations communities.

The event serves as a cultural and social hub, a place to reconnect with friends and family and strengthen bonds. The spirit of competition is fierce, but the spirit of solidarity is stronger. It's a time when cultural pride is on full display and where stories, traditions and knowledge are passed down to the next generation.

For many players and spectators, the Knockout presents an opportunity to celebrate identity and build a lasting legacy for younger generations.

It stands as a powerful symbol of First Nations resilience, offering a platform to elevate stories of pride, strength, and community, according to NRL legend and one of NITV’s Koori Knockout commentators, Timana Tahu.

Blackfullas love playing rugby league, we have so many stars in the NRLW and NRL that we all looked up to as kids. It also brings the community together.

Timana Tahu

"We’re so spread out and living on other people’s country, but when we get to the Knockout, we see our families.

"Usually, we catch up during funerals, but the Koori Knockout brings the footy atmosphere, the community atmosphere, catching up with relatives you haven’t seen for a long time, and celebrating our culture."

NITV's Over the Black Dot with Timana Tahu on set. Source: SBS / Dave Ollier

Tahu emphasised the event’s deeper meaning, highlighting its role in bringing together families, celebrating culture, and showcasing the resilience and strength of our mob.

When asked about his favourite part of the weekend, Tahu spoke passionately about the women’s matches and how the Knockout is elevating women’s rugby league.