Indigenous stars rally behind Emus urging fans to back match in 2025

Indigenous league players have issued a ‘call to arms’ following the cancellation of a competition which celebrates culture and unites the region.

Luke Tarrant had March 2, the day of the SWQ Emus and TRL All Stars showpiece, circled on his calendar.

The proud Kamilaroi man and father of two boys was looking forward to watching his son Luke line up for the under-18 Emus.

Unfortunately, following this week’s shock decision to cancel the 2024 SWQ Emus and TRL All Stars showdown, he will have to wait at least another year.

However, when the Emus return Tarrant will be there.

“I know my son was really looking forward to the game,” Tarrant said.

“He was excited and proud to be named for the Emus. Hopefully he gets another opportunity to play for the Emus.”

SWQ Emus officialshave cited “circumstances beyond our control” as their reason for cancelling nexy mont’s planned gala day.

Tarrant, a Dalby Diehards stalwart, said the cancellation was disappointing news and he hoped to see the Emus back bigger and better next year.

All Stars and Emus clash in inaugural TRL spectacle

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“It’s a really important event on the league calendar,” he said.

“I think we (Toowoomba Rugby League) have the best country rugby league competition and players anywhere in the state.

“This event is a great opportunity to showcase the abilities and skills of all our players from both sides and that is really important.

“It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate Indigenous culture and history as well.

“It’s been great to see the support for Emus All Stars over the years and I hope it’s there next year when they come back.”

Cameron Moodie joined Tarrant in the call for the greater Toowoomba and Darling Downs community to back the league day when it returns.

Wayne John Weribone at the 2020 SWQ Emus and TRL All Stars game.

First played in 2017 in a bid to celebrate Indigenous culture and showcase the Darling Downs’ best league players, the match was an instant success.

It quickly became one of Toowoomba Rugby League’s most celebrated events with junior games added to the mix over the years.

Moodie, who is a Newtown Lions veteran and proud Gunggari man, said the competition must continue.

“It’s really important that everyone – players, clubs, officials and fans – get behind it next year and the years afterwards,” Moodie said.

“Rugby league is like gospel to Indigenous people, particularly the kids.

“This game gives us the opportunity to play, celebrate our culture and family and honour past (Indigenous) players who paved the way for the current generation.”

Like Tarrant, Moodie would love to see his sons play for the Emus.

“I’ve never had the honour of playing personally … I’d love to see my sons play,” he said.

“My eldest decorates his boots with Indigenous art and does the same for some of his mates.

“He is a very talented artist as well as a league player and it would be amazing to see him play for the Emus.”