Fremantle’s charitable arm, the Purple Hands Foundation, will once again take footy to the northwest for the annual Kimberley 9s carnival at Cable Beach, Broome.
The Purple Hands Foundation’s interschool AFL 9s carnival will see 82% of Kimberley schools participate, with close to 600 students involved – the biggest number of participants in the event’s six-year history.
Run across Wednesday 28 October and Thursday 29 October, students are rewarded with places after improved school attendance and good behaviour. Many students will travel more than 12 hours from remote communities to reach Broome.
Fremantle players Isaiah Dudley, Leon Kickett and Áine Tighe will be in attendance, engaging with students and connecting with the community.
Purple Hands Foundation General Manager, Simon Eastaugh, says Fremantle are delighted to be returning to the Kimberley for a sixth consecutive year.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the Kimberley 9s back to Broome. The carnival will bring almost 600 boys and girls from years 5 to 8 together from across the Kimberley to play football and connect with other young people from across the region," Eastaugh said.
The carnival connects the Purple Hands Foundation’s year-round work in the region through their Kimberley Connected online workshop program.
“Regional pathways are extremely important and programs like Kimberley Connected help build relationships and opportunities over time, while recognising the strengths and potential already present in the Kimberley region,” Eastaugh said.
“Throughout the year, the program supports learning around health and wellbeing, connection to culture and Country, and road safety.
"It’s made possible by the support of WA Police, local teachers and community organisations, alongside other Club partners from across Western Australia.”
This year’s Kimberley 9s event is well supported by WA Police, the Shire of Broome, Kimberley Regional Service Providers, as well as official partners; Programmed, RAC and Containers for Change.
