Published: 19 Apr 2018
Last week was the 20th annual Gunnedah Coalminers Small Schools Carnival.
It is sometimes a challenge for small schools to field a whole footy team, so the Carnival is a great opportunity for kids to have a day of team competition and fun, by allowing the participants to play in composite sides.
The event has been sponsored by the CFMEU Mining & Energy’s Northern District for the past 20 years. Gunnedah local, competitive footballer and long time CFMEU identity Ross Whitaker is a key supporter and organiser for the event. The enjoyment the kids get from taking part in the Carnival is a primary motivator for Ross.
The day was organised by NRL lead Game Development Officer, Peter Stevens, who was delighted with the participation of over 200 local children from small schools in the local area.
Ross Whitaker says he finds the day inspirational, and he was particularly thrilled for the kids from Mullaley who had never taken part in a carnival before.
Other schools taking part were Tambar Springs, Somerton, Carroll, Curlewis, Narrabri, Barraba, Manilla, Boggabri and of course Gunnedah.
Northern District Vice President Jeremy McWilliams was impressed when he visited on the day.
