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Media Release: Narrm, Victoria - 31 July 2024
The Indigenous Sports Network proudly announces the 2024 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sports Awards (NATSISA), set to take place at the iconic MCG Olympic Room in Melbourne on Saturday, 16th November. This prestigious event, revitalised and brought back into the spotlight last year, promises an evening of celebration, unity, and recognition of the extraordinary talent within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sporting community.
Building on the success of the 2023 NATSISA, this year’s ceremony will honour the achievements of athletes, coaches, and sporting organisations who have demonstrated excellence, resilience, and outstanding sportsmanship over the past year. Thirteen award categories will be presented, including the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award, showcasing the diversity and brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sportspeople.
The NATSISA event will gather over 500 guests, providing a platform to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and communities to Australian sports. The awards highlight the significant role sports play in the lives of Indigenous Australians, offering a safe environment to express their cultures, develop a sense of connectedness and pride, and promote strong health messages.
The evening will feature entertainment by the talented Canisha and DJ Soju Gang, with guest speaker Patrick Johnson and M.C. Shelley Ware adding to the event’s prestige.
The National Indigenous Sports Foundation (NISF) conducts the NATSISA through the Indigenous Sports Network, emphasising the importance of sports in fostering community spirit and well-being among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A distinguished panel of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, sports industry experts, prominent sports personalities, and media representatives will judge the awards. These include: Kyle Vander-Kuyp, Neville Jetta, Dean Widders, Jody Barney, Shelley Ware and Darren Moncrieff. The Awards are also propelled forward by the working committee, comprising of Wayne Coolwell, Rob Hyatt, Shelley Ware, Bo de la Cruze-Maclean, Jaki Adams, Rob Bradley, Jed Smith and event manager, Nathan Lovett-Murray.
Public participation is encouraged, and the public is invited to nominate and vote for their favourite athletes, coaches, and organisations. This inclusive approach ensures that the awards truly reflect the voice and choice of the community.
Thank you to this year's current list of Sponsors:
Australian Sports Museum
Confederation of Australian Sport
First Peoples Assembly of Victoria
RH Sports/Hart Sports
Pullman Melbourne on the Park
VicHealth
Koori Mail
Fellowship for Indigenous Leadership
Jemena
PJA Accountants
Victorian Aboriginal Health Service
Join us at the 2024 NATSISA to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sportspeople, fostering a spirit of unity and excellence that resonates across the nation.
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or more information on how to nominate and vote, please contact:
Event Manager, Nathan Lovett-Murray
Indigenous Sports Network
0448 423 799
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