The Goodooga Indigenous Games were held at Goodooga Central School. It brought together more than 700 students from 37 schools across New South Wales for two days of cultural celebration, sport, and learning — and the Road Safety Education team was proud to be part of the event.

Renae Neagle, Chris North, and Kim Flack from the Road Safety Education team spent two rewarding days at Goodooga Central School, near Lightning Ridge, engaging with students, teachers, and community partners.

Now in its 15th year, the Games continue to promote cultural understanding, physical fitness, teamwork, and friendship among students from diverse backgrounds. Students were grouped into mixed-age teams and took part in a range of traditional games including Munhanganing (a tag game), Kokan (similar to hockey), Buroinjin (a blend of soccer and NRL), Pulyugge (inspired by AFL), Keentan (a netball-style game), and Parndo (a rugby target game).

A highlight of this year’s event was the introduction of a Wellbeing Hub, offering students free access to dental and health checks, as well as the opportunity to engage with government and community services. Participating organisations included Walgett Aboriginal Medical Services, Headspace, Transport for NSW, NSW Police, the Department of Education’s School Sport Unit, the Child Wellbeing Unit, Teach NSW, and the Road Safety Education Program.

The Road Safety Education team took the opportunity to connect with teachers, sharing teaching resources and professional learning opportunities to support road safety education. The team also spoke with students about safe behaviours as passengers, bike riders, and future drivers.

The Games provided a unique and meaningful way for us to engage with students and teachers. It was about building relationships and supporting young people to make safe choices — both on and off the road.