Thirty-five Indigenous children and their families from across Victoria participated in a world-class experience at the first-ever First Nations Day held at Australian Open 2022.
Rhys and Lewis from our Indigenous Leadership Academy, Buldau Yioohgen, worked as ball kids, while the rest of the kids and their families were treated to painting, live music, tennis lessons on Rod Laver arena and even a meeting with local champ, Ash Barty!
On being one of 360 ball kids selected from more than 2,500+ applications for the
David Law, Program Manager of Buldau Yioohgen, said, “the tennis world is not just for elite players; it’s a game for all. The aim for us is for these kids to leave with confidence and know that they can participate in any event, challenge and sport they love.
“We hope everyone involved gained a sense of pride in their own culture and that their culture will go with them everywhere they go, walking in both worlds,” he said.
Kellie Hunter, Senior Cultural Operations Lead, said that “everyone was buzzing” on the day.
“I got a call from the mum of three of the little ones who participated on the day. She asked me if I could help get them into tennis because they just loved it that much,” Kellie said.
“This couldn’t have happened without Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria – these kids and families wouldn’t normally have these sorts of opportunities. Hopefully, in a few years, we’ll see some more Ash Bartys running around on the courts!”
Australian Open, Lewis said, “It’s really fun when you get out on court, I wasn’t as nervous as I thought I’d be!”
Uncle Ian Goolagong, Cultural Ambassador for Buldau Yioohgen, with young participants.
Auntie Kellie Hunter, Senior Cultural Operations Lead for Buldau Yioohgen, with participants at First Nations Day.
Felix AUGER ALIASSIME (CAN) had a hit with 12 year old Angus Haines in between the pillars painted by Indigenous artist Maggie Jean Douglas. PHOTO CREDIT FIONA HAMILTON/TENNIS AUSTRALIA
First Nations elder Uncle Ron Murray plays tennis and music with the didgeridoo as First Nations children take part in the Kids on Court. PHOTO CREDIT Tracey Nearmy/TENNIS AUSTRALIA
First Nations elders and First Nations children take part in the Kids on Court, ANZ Hot Shots event. PHOTO CREDIT Tracey Nearmy/TENNIS AUSTRALIA
Ash BARTY (AUS) poses for photos during First Nations Day at Melbourne Park in Melbourne on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. PHOTO CREDIT Rob Prezioso/TENNIS AUSTRALIA
