Hailing from the Torres Strait Islands, Gehamat Shibasaki’s journey in the National Rugby League (NRL) has been a testament to perseverance and resilience. Since making his debut in 2018, Shibasaki has emerged as a key player for the Brisbane Broncos, finding his stride and achieving career-best form. As NAIDOC Week 2025 unfolds, his inspiring story highlights the significance of self-belief, hard work, and a robust support system.
NAIDOC Week, a celebration of Indigenous achievement, serves as a platform for Shibasaki and others to inspire the next generation. Following his remarkable call-up to the Queensland side for the State of Origin decider, Shibasaki hopes to motivate Indigenous youth to pursue their dreams, despite the challenges they may face. “Especially for the Indigenous community, a lot of kids back home come down here for boarding school and stuff like that, and they get homesick and they go back home,” Shibasaki said. “But if they stick it out even longer and just work a little bit harder, then it’s possible.”
Indigenous Representation in NRL
Alongside Shibasaki, the Maroons squad features other Indigenous talents such as fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and forward Reuben Cotter. The extended squad also includes Indigenous stars Reece Walsh, J’Maine Hopgood, and Josh Kerr. Kerr, who co-captained the Indigenous All Stars team earlier this year, emphasized the importance of cultural celebration, stating, “Culture elevates culture.”
As NAIDOC Week commences, Kerr reflected on Australia’s progress in Indigenous policy and the areas that still require attention. “It’s a good ‘stop and smell the roses’ sort of week where you look at how far our people have come,” Kerr remarked. “You need to look back at the past and say, ‘alright, how can we do better in life’.”
The Significance of NAIDOC Week
NAIDOC Week is not just a time for celebration but also for reflection and education. Hopgood, from the Gureng Gureng people and an ambassador for Deadly Choices, highlighted the importance of the week in promoting health and well-being within Indigenous communities. “It’s extremely important … just to provide information to everyone else about what the week’s about for us,” Hopgood said.
Hopgood’s involvement with Deadly Choices underscores the ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes for Indigenous Australians. He also noted the significance of the upcoming NRL Indigenous Round, which showcases Indigenous culture and heritage. “It’s always special to be a part of,” he added.
Embracing Cultural Diversity
In recent seasons, the NRL and its clubs have increasingly embraced cultural diversity, recognizing its role in shaping players’ identities. Hopgood praised the initiatives taken by clubs like the Parramatta Eels, where he was honored with a special jersey featuring his totem, the owl. “I think the clubs are really taking a big initiative towards cultural diversity,” Hopgood stated.
The Eels’ cultural night in Lennox Head, featuring performances by Indigenous and Pasifika groups, exemplifies the league’s commitment to cultural education. “So, I think that was just educating everyone on culture – and not having to bore them with a slideshow, but just showing song and dance,” Hopgood explained.
Looking Ahead: The Next Generation
NAIDOC Week 2025, themed “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” celebrates the achievements of the past while looking towards a brighter future. The theme underscores the importance of empowering young leaders, fostering community vision, and honoring ancestral legacies. The NRL encourages fans and the community to participate in local events and learn more about Indigenous culture and history.
As Australia continues to grapple with its history and strive for a more inclusive future, NAIDOC Week serves as a reminder of both the progress made and the work still to be done. The stories of Shibasaki, Hopgood, and their peers highlight the potential of sport as a platform for cultural celebration and social change.
