A DAY OF PRIDE AND PLAY

Saleyards Park was buzzing with Australian South Sea Islander pride as more than two hundred players and supporters gathered for this year’s Kanaka Proud Cup. The annual Rockhampton versus Mackay challenge brought families, past players and young talent together from across Queensland to share culture, connection and sport.

This year’s event marked 25 years since the Queensland Government recognised Australian South Sea Islanders (ASSI) as a distinct cultural group. For many who made the trip to Rockhampton, the Cup remains a place to honour history and identity while celebrating the contribution ASSI people continue to make to Central Queensland.

The competition began in 2017 through the leadership of the Mesh and Knots ASSI ATSI Women’s Group in Mackay and the men’s group Common Thread. What started as a single idea has grown into a major cultural gathering that rotates between Mackay and Rockhampton every two years, strengthening ties between both communities and supporting youth involvement, wellbeing and cultural awareness.

Six matches were played across the Under 16, Under 19 and Open divisions. Rockhampton delivered a clean sweep, including a tight 20 to 12 extra-time win in the Open Men’s match after coming from behind, and a strong 34 to 10 win in the Open Women’s game. For players, coaches and supporters, the results carried real meaning, closing out a day built on pride and connection.

Rockhampton Regional Council supported this year’s cultural day and league challenge. Mayor Tony Williams acknowledged the long relationship between the region and the ASSI community.

“The Australian South Sea Islander community are resilient and proud people whose ancestors were blackbirded to Australia to work in the sugar cane fields.

“We know they contributed significantly to the growth of the sugar cane industry and continue to enrich our local communities and region. We wish them well for their Kanaka Proud Cup Cultural Day and their Rugby League Challenge on Saturday.”

For the ASSI community, the Cup is more than a result on the board. It is a reminder of shared story, a chance to pass that story to the next generation, and a celebration of who they are and where they come from.