On Sunday 8th July, the Western Bulldogs hosted the 9th annual William Cooper Cup between the Aboriginal All-Stars and Victoria Police at Whitten Oval, as part of NAIDOC week.

The William Cooper Cup is named in honour of 1930’s Aboriginal activist and Footscray resident, William Cooper.

Maidstone based Aboriginal health service, The Gathering Place are the originators of the idea behind the Cup which aims to improve relationships between Indigenous people and police.

More than 500 people attended the day, which included displays by emergency services, a free BBQ courtesy of Yarraville Rotary and activities for the children including Maribyrnong Council Street Surfer trailer, balloon artists and face painting.

William Cooper’s grandson Uncle Boydie Alfred Turner travelled down from Shepparton to launch the match which in a tight contest saw the Victoria Police Football Club prevail.

NAIDOC is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and an opportunity to recognise the broad contributions of Indigenous Australians to our nation.

The Western Bulldogs are committed to reconciliation with Aboriginal Australia and are proud to support the Koorie community in the Western Region of Melbourne.