Twelve University of Tasmania students will be part of the 30th UniSport Indigenous Nationals, which kick off later this month on Awabakal and Worimi Country at the University of Newcastle in New South Wales.
The Indigenous Nationals bring together Indigenous student-athletes from universities across Australia from 29 June to 3 July to compete, connect, and celebrate culture through sport. The event will feature a mixed competition across four sports; touch football, basketball, netball, and volleyball.
University of Tasmania Sport, in partnership with the Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education, works each year to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to attend and compete at the event.
Adding to this year’s significance, Pakana woman and University of Tasmania alumna Nikki Sainty has designed the official artwork for the 2026 Indigenous Nationals uniforms. Her design will be proudly worn by University of Tasmania student-athletes as a visual representation of culture, identity, and connection to Country throughout the competition.
Head of Services at the Riawunna Centre David Warrener noted the pride students carry in representing their communities on a national stage.
“This is a great, and very proud opportunity for our students to represent their university, their community, themselves, and family, at a significant sporting event,” he said.
“It is great to win, but also it is great to compete, to give your best, to be humble and to remain respectful. We wish our students all the best in competition and know that they will meet many other students, gain knowledge, and enjoy their experiences.”
The Nationals provide an important opportunity for participants to showcase their skills while contributing to a strong, supportive, and united national community of Indigenous student-athletes.
Head of Sport Kieran Perry said the partnership with Riawunna plays an important role in ensuring students can fully engage in the experience, both on and off the field.
“The Indigenous Nationals are a vital opportunity for our students to connect to university life, strengthen cultural identity, and experience high-level sporting competition in a supportive and meaningful environment,” he said.
“This event is about much more than sport, it is about connection, pride, and community. Through our partnership with the Riawunna Centre, we are proud to support students to represent the University of Tasmania and to take part in an experience that is both culturally significant and personally transformative.”
Pictured: Student athletes Isaac Grundy and Coen Ward with Anna Wommatakimmi-Chapman from Riawunna. Photo by Peter W. Allen