GWABA 2022: Deadly action and culture across at GWABA carnival in Bunbury

On a day which celebrates culture, family and country, the Wardong Warriors added a deadly brand of football to the mix. The 2022 GWABA Bunbury Football Carnival, a magical showcase of Indigenous football, again delivered an unforgettable occasion on Saturday night — with the Warriors recording a commanding 11.3 (69) to 1.3 (9) win over Koolbardis in the grand final at Hands Oval. Such was the demand for players wanting to participate, the carnival was expanded to 16 teams this season, which meant three ovals — Hands Oval, Payne Park and Kelly Park — held round-robin matches from 8.30am. Throughout all matches, the standard of play was football in its purest form. From long, direct, kicking and lightning-fast handballs, players across all teams were encouraged to delve into their undeniable talent and show off personal creativity and flair. Aside from inspiring deeds on the field almost everywhere you looked, the heart-warming cries of support from family members watching their loved ones was enough to give you goosebumps. A number of SWFL and WAFL players made guest appearances throughout the day, including Busselton’s Dylan Patterson and Shaquille McKenzie (Collie Eagles). Koolbardis qualified for the carnival grand final against Warriors after overcoming Thunder, a former carnival champion, in an absorbing semi-final at Hands Oval. However the gruelling nature of this game appeared to take its toll on Koolbardis, who were no match for the slick Warriors from the opening bounce. Throughout all matches on the day, the umpiring was exceptional, with witty banter and a desire to maintain free-flowing football resulting in minimal free kicks and stoppages. Despite the one-sided nature of the grand final, both Warriors and Koolbardis players warmly embraced each other post-game, as the real victory was the celebration of Indigenous culture and the wonderful impact it has and always will have on football. Award recipients Grand Final fairest and best: Manfred Kelly (Wardong Warriors); Hands Oval goal of the day - Tama Oakley (Superoos); Hands Oval mark of the day - Blake Colling (Bloods); Kelly Park Goal of the Day - “Herbie” (Tjurntu); Kelly Park mark of the day - Tyrone Thorne (Jets); Payne Park goal of the day - Brody Pickett (Bulldogs); Payne Park mark of the day - Gregson Narkle (Tigers); Runner up carnival fairest and best- Sokaa Soka (Bulldogs); Overall carnival fairest and best - Kelvin Lawrence (Demons); Overall carnival rising star - Kieran Douglas (Bulldogs).