Over 500 competitors will converge on Port Macquarie in April to compete in the 2019 Aboriginal Elders Olympics.
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About 30 teams, support staff and spectators are expected to enjoy an extended stay in the area, in a major boost for tourism.
There are about 15 members per team.
The event is being organised by the Werin Aboriginal Elders team, representing their auspicing body Werin Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre.
The Werin team won the right to host the event after winning the 2018 event held at Inverell.
Organising committee members Gloria O'Brien-Rudyk and Cindy O'Brien-Younie say the groundwork for the event is already underway.
"We are seeking gold, silver and bronze sponsorships, presentation night table sponsors and about 180 volunteers," said Gloria.
"We have written to schools inviting students to become involved as volunteers while we are also in discussion with various organisations including, CSU, area health, TAFE, colleges and the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce.
"This is a major event for Port Macquarie and will bring significant tourism dollars."
Cindy said sponsors can expect to receive plenty of exposure in the lead up to the event, on the day of competition and at the presentation night.
"This event is based around healthy living for Aboriginal Elders," she said.
"So we are looking to secure partners that can assist us in creating good, healthy food choices during the competition.
This is a major event for Port Macquarie and will bring significant tourism dollars.
- Gloria O'Brien-Rudyk
"We have already sourced most of the equipment that we will use on the day."
Approaches have also been made to all levels of government and the NSW Land Council for funding.
The event is at Stuarts Park on April 11.
Birpai Local Aboriginal Land Council will host a meet and greet for the event on Wednesday April 10. The presentation is at Panthers Port Macquarie following the Thursday competition.
Along with the Werin team, Birpai and Bunya land councils have also indicated they will be competing.
This event is inclusive and the wider community is welcome to attend the event, the organisers said.
Wauchope Men's Shed has donated several items for pre-event raffle prizes, which is part of the fundraising effort.
Newcastle Knights will provide all the footballs for the pass the ball competition along with a signed football jersey. South Sydney has also provided a signed 2014 football, which will be offered as part of the fundraising effort.
The Aboriginal Elders Olympics follows the strategic Close the Gap initiative designed to bridge the gap between health in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.
Sponsors or volunteers can contact Gloria O'Brien-Rudyk 6586 0365 or email gloronwalters@hotmail.com or Cindy O'Brien-Younie 0402350511 or email cobrien166@gmail.com for more information.
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