The inaugural Kowanyama Community Rugby League Carnival weekend has been hailed a huge success, with more than 1000 people converging on the grounds last weekend to watch some exciting finals footy.
Teams travelled from as far as the Gulf to the East Coast, as well as Cairns and Townsville to participate in what also also marked the official opening of the new community sports precinct.
Those in attendance also recognised the passing of respected elder May Smiller, who passed away at the age of 105.
On the first day, a number of games were fiercely contested with local team Kowanyama Warriors finishing on top of the draw.
The following day saw spectators witness a very tight semi final between Kowanyama Warriors and Kin-Kopl Pride.
Scores were locked up at fulltime, and went into golden point where the Warriors escaped with a win with a scintillating try to Michael Gibbo after great lead-up work from Cameron Josiah.
Competition favourites Lower Gulf Brumbies then went up against Pormpuraaw Crocs where the Brumbies were comfortable winners in a highly physical game.
The final saw the Lower Gulf boys skip out to a quick lead with two great tries, before the Warriors pegged one back at half time to be down by two at half time.
The second half saw a late try to Warriors prop Taylor Tommy with goal kicking all that split the two teams, where Warriors captain slotted one of the crucial goals and secured the win.
Events like this would not be possible without the generous support from many individuals, organisations and businesses, as well as the tireless work done behind the scenes by a team of dedicated volunteers.
A special thanks went out to: Skytrans, Hinterland Aviation, Kowanyama Sports Association, Kowanyama Coffee Shop, Kowanyama PBC and Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council for sponsorship and organising of the event.
