THE Australian Army and National Rugby League are joining forces this week to roll out a comprehensive training and education program in Laura on Cape York Peninsula.
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The Army already boasts a heavy presence in the community, courtesy of an Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme (AACAP) project which is upgrading essential infrastructure in Laura.
AACAP is a joint initiative between the Australian Army and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. The Prime Minister and Cabinet provide up to $6 million per project and the Army meets this with an equivalent figure via significant personnel and equipment resources.
The Australian Army’s 6th Combat Support Brigade is rolling out the project, which will see around 200 soldiers stationed in the town until October.
As part of NAIDOC Week until 10 July, a series of accredited rugby league sports trainer, coaching, Leaguesafe and referee courses, as well as anti-bullying and education programs will be delivered.
The programs will be supported by former Indigenous NRL player, Matt Bowen, in his role as a NRL ambassador and AACAP 2016 Contingent Commander, Major Jack Plimmer, soldiers and officers from the 6th Engineer Support Regiment.
It is designed to encourage cultural exchange in NAIDOC Week and to help celebrate the 20th consecutive year the Australian Army has deployed to remote Indigenous communities to deliver infrastructure, vocational skills and training and health care services.
The week will culminate on Sunday with an NRL Gala Day game at the Laura School from 10am.
Teams from the Army, Laura, Cooktown, Wugal Wugal and Hopevale will battle it out for the Reg Saunders Cup.
