Cumberland Council in partnership with Creating Chances hosted the World Traditional Games event, which has won the Program, Activities and Events Award as part of the National Sports Convention’s 2018 Australian Sport, Recreation, and Play Innovation Awards ceremony held in Victoria.
Mayor Greg Cummings said this award was a deserved recognition of Council staff and Creating Chances’ great work providing opportunities for Cumberland’s diverse community to participate in games from around the globe.
“Cumberland is proud of the fact we are one of the most multi-cultural and diverse communities in Australia, coming from over 150 different countries. The World Traditional Games highlights the richness and diversity of our cultures and gives our young residents the chance to celebrate it,” Mayor Greg Cummings said.
“The World Traditional Games which was held at Wyatt Park in Lidcombe in June 2018 brought together 60 high school students along with 20 volunteers from across the Cumberland and western Sydney region to compete in traditional sports from around the world. These included Baraf Paani (Pakistan), Kabaddi (India), Keentan (Indigenous Australian), Kilikiti (Samoan Cricket) and Tzami (Greece).
“Cumberland Council encourage our community to be active, play and embrace their cultures which is why partnering with Creating Chances for this event was a great fit. The World Traditional Games builds the confidence of our young people, increases cultural understanding and builds community pride.”
Brad McCarroll, General Manager Creating Chances said, "We're excited to introduce an innovative concept that breaks down participation barriers to sport and creates a level playing field for all to be included regardless of their skill level, gender, age or cultural background."
"This is a meaningful award that represents all of the young people we work with. The World Traditional Games: Boundless Cup is underpinned by respect and inclusion. Just as we acknowledge and celebrate cultures in the clothes we wear and the food we eat, we can do that through sports too, where we learn about the cultural elements and stories of the game, embrace our differences and celebrate our similarities," said Assmaah Helal, Operations Manager, Creating Chances.
