North Malaita Christmas Game gets Australian support

The Australian High Commission in Solomon Islands has pledged Australia’s strong support for young people in Solomon Islands.
North Malaita 2006 Xmas Games stage [pic by Gabrielle Stewart, AHC].

Speaking at the opening of the North Malaita Christmas Games Australian High Commission third secretary Gabrielle Stewart said Australia's assistance to Solomon Islands has a strong focus on working with young people.

The North Malaita Christmas games was held from December 20-23 at the Malu'u School playing grounds. It attracted a total of 59 soccer and 18 netball teams.
Some of the North Malaita soccer teams assemble at Malu'u [pic by Gabrielle Stewart].

Ms Stewart said Australia was proud to sponsor a sporting event which included both men and women to participate and do their best.

"It is encouraging to see a community activity that meets the needs of young people and helps them to develop the team work and leadership qualities which can be gained from participation in sport."

Ms Stewart was one of many spectators at the Christmas Games who enjoyed watching the women's prowess on the netball court and the men's skills on the soccer field during the four-day sports carnival.

Ms Stewart congratulated the To'abaita Authority for Research and Development (TARD)student volunteer group, for organising the first North Malaita Christmas Games.

Australia's support of sporting programs and organisations like TARD demonstrate its commitment to working with the young people of Solomon Islands.

Source: Solomon Star