Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation (GSAC), through Healthway’s partnership, has claimed some major wins of late.

Mullewa Football Club broke a 20-year drought when it won last year’s Grand Final, its Reserves made the Grand Final and its canteen, unused for the past 15 years, was finally able to provide affordable healthy food items.

This year, GSAC and Healthway will continue their partnership, which focuses on sport and recreation programs that support physical activity, healthy eating, and mental wellbeing for Aboriginal young people.

Overall, the program prioritises Aboriginal young people in living in the Mid West and works with schools, local government, police, medical and community organisations to support a collaborative approach to health and wellbeing.

GSAC Executive Officer Adrian Bartlett said creating sporting experiences in the community which integrate and strengthen culture improves mental health and fosters healthy living.

“The Mullewa Football Club win has been a real success story and is an excellent example of how wins off the field, through focusing on the team’s health and wellbeing, can see increased wins on the field,” he said.

 “We’ve normalised healthy food and drinks, and created smoke and alcohol-free events, which has had a knock-on effect on the whole community.”

Healthway CEO Colin Smith said we partner with GSAC to support the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal young people through sports programs like football and soccer.

“This comprehensive and holistic approach is giving young people to access meaningful services to help them overcome life’s challenges.”

“They are empowering the participants to become leaders within their communities both on and off the field,” he said.