From Geraldton to Esperance, boys from Clontarf academies around WA descended on Rottnest Island to take part in the annual Wadjemup Cup football carnival in early November.
More than 100 boys from Carnarvon, Cecil Andrews (Seville Grove), Champion Bay (Geraldton), Clontarf (Waterford), Coodanup (Mandurah), Esperance, Fremantle, Gilmore (Kwinana), Girrawheen, Kalgoorlie, Katanning, Newton Moore (Bunbury), North Albany (Albany), Northam, Swan View and Yule Brook (Maddington) attended.
While some wild weather lashed the Perth coastline, the conditions on the island turned out to be perfect for footy and the boys made the most of it, putting on a show with spiralling long bombs, towering pack marks and thrilling snaps on goal.
More than 70 representatives from Clontarf partners braved the rough ferry ride to cheer on the boys from the side lines or volunteer during games. The Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) was instrumental in facilitating the event, providing ample shade, refreshments and food for players and spectators alike. WA Minister for Tourism the Hon. Paul Papalia CSC MLA and Lisa O’Malley MLA also attended and provided their support.
WA Zone Manager Gavin Greaves said the carnival was the perfect way to reward the boys for their efforts during the year.
“The Wadjemup Cup is one of the most anticipated events of the year as the boys love visiting Rottnest because of its cultural significance and wealth of natural sights and landmarks,” he said.
“Not only do the boys get to test out their footy skills against peers, but they get to forge new friendships, learn about other regions around the state and take part in fun, engaging activities.”
While winning wasn’t the main goal of the carnival, the Rangers, made up of students from Cecil Andrews, Clontarf and Esperance were awarded the trophy after impressive wins over their competition.
Thank you to the RIA for hosting our boys, staff and partners, and thank you to all spectators and volunteers who showed their support over the weekend. The boys are already looking forward to 2020!
