Zei Balas

The Arthur Beetson Foundation Queensland Murri Carnival was an incredible experience for everyone involved!

The Zei Balas team, a diverse group of players from various locations, embodied the spirit of unity and cultural pride. Under Jayden Ah Boo’s inspiring leadership and vision, they didn’t just come together as teammates but as brothers.

The competition took place over the holidays from 25 to 28 September. This annual four-day rugby league carnival brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teams from across Queensland. Our team, Zei Balas (bonded like brothers), of 20 players, came from all corners of Australia, including Thursday Island, Badu, Innisfail, Woorabinda, Townsville, Cairns, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. Churchie students Jayden Ah Boo (Captain), Bailen Noy (Vice Captain) and Tuviyah Tamwoy were passionate team participants as players and hosts.

Winning two out of four games is a remarkable achievement, especially for a team that had not previously played together. Their resilience, determination and successful bounce-back after losses are truly commendable. The team’s display of heart, grit and growing bond, is a source of immense pride. The significant role of families, coaches and community support in their journey cannot be overstated.

On behalf of the team, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families, supporters, sponsors, Parent Connect, Community Cookers and the entire Churchie community for their unwavering encouragement and participation throughout this incredible journey. We are deeply grateful to the Churchie staff managers and coaches, (Kelly Jackson and Craig Howe (managers), Peter Coyne and John Krasniewicz (coaches) and their assistants for generously giving their time and support to the team. The presence and support of Kye Boland and Emil Willie-Jawai, founders of the Zei Balas team in 2021 and Churchie Old Boys (2023), at the games, was also greatly appreciated.

Jayden Ah Boo, the captain of the team, shared his thoughts on representing his mob and participating in the games, saying,

By forming this team, my primary goal is to extend the opportunities I have been fortunate to have to my close friends and family from remote communities. I want to give them a chance to showcase their talents, giving them a new path to walk while proudly representing our diverse backgrounds, rich cultures, cherished families and beloved homes.

Jayden Ah Boo

When asked about the highlight of the carnival, the players shared, “It was coming together as strangers and leaving as brothers, representing their culture through rugby, making lifelong friends and creating unforgettable memories.”