At Tamworth No. 1 Oval on Sunday, children from all around travelled to take part.

“It was good to see a number of new players, both boys and girls, come out and give AFL a crack,” AFLNW president Josh McKenzie said.

“The most pleasing thing was to see smiles across the new faces and to hear how much fun they had.”

The day gave junior rep players a hit-out before the Northern Zone carnival in Coffs Harbour on July 17-18.

Children wanting to give AFL a go can do so in upcoming gala days in Gunnedah on July 29 and Armidale on August 12.

AFLNW have also teamed up with new sponsor Northern Region Aboriginal Land Council who put $1000 towards the 95 rep apparel kits that had to be purchased.

Councillor Charles Lynch of the Northern Region ALC attended the representative carnival on June 9 where the four North West teams played North Coast and thoroughly enjoyed the day’s action.

“It’s about social inclusion – not just for Aboriginal players,” he said.

“The social interaction inclusion creates self-esteem, a sense of belonging and builds confidence. The journey of participation will also bring and maintain discipline, well-being and most of all establish lifetime friendships.

“I look forward to being involved in the future.”

AFL North West junior coordinator Neil Dunn welcomed the new partnership.

“We are thrilled to have the Northern Region Aboriginal Land Council to help develop our junior Aussie Rules footballers and take them to the next level,” he said.