Federal Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson has met with participants of the first Shooting Stars site based south of Perth.
Participants from the Narrogin site presented their newly launched netball uniform, which was designed by the Shooting Stars participants, and unveiled their name; The Shooting Stars Narrogin Wheatbelt Warriors.
Belonging to a supportive, inclusive team is a key component of both the Shooting Stars philosophy and success. Shooting Stars, which are committed to site-specific processes that enhance cultural and community wellbeing, run a dress design competition across each of the sites in their first term.
The participants voted for their favourite design, each of which was converted to a printable prototype by the Indigenous owned and operated Jilalga Designs.
The Shooting Stars Program uses netball and other engagement activities as a driver to help enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls to have a taste of success to improve their self-image, develop hope and aspirations about their future, and provide motivation to attend school to achieve those aspirations.
“It was a pleasure to meet with the newest Shooting Stars Team, who were a very enthusiastic and engaging group of young women,” Mr Wilson said.
“Increasing school attendance in the regions, particularly among our indigenous youth, is a key focus for our Government and the Shooting Stars initiative has been successful in achieving this objective in other parts of rural WA.
“I look forward to seeing similar results in my electorate and I wish the Warriors all the best moving forward.”
Shooting Stars Executive Officer Fran Haintz thanked the Member for O’Connor for his support of the latest Shooting Stars site.
“To have the support from the Federal Government is essential for our aspirations of expanding Shooting Stars across Western Australia and beyond.”
“We look forward to growing the program with the help of Mr Wilson and ensuring more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls have the chance to attend school and reach their full potential.”
Narrogin is now the seventh Shooting Stars site in Western Australia, which include Carnarvon, Derby, Halls Creek, Mullewa, Meekatharra and Wiluna.
The Program continues to be a key driver in creating equality for female leaders and generational change, with 75% of its staff and 50% of its Board identifying as Indigenous.
