Crowds continue to flock to Titans' NAIDOC event

It may not have been able to take place on the original date in July, but the Titans' NAIDOC event was a huge success when it finally did take place in late December last year.

The event, which is proudly supported by the Deadly Choices and Kalwun, has become a mainstay on the Titans calendar and always proves popular amongst the Titans fan base and wider Gold Coast community.

Postponed due to adverse weather (for the second year in a row) the event was worth the wait for the Gold Coast community.

Over 2,000 people attended the event held at Firth Park, Mudgeeraba despite the oppressive heat.

Community members were treated to a whole NRL squad appearance, with players mingling, signing autographs and lining up for a fresh 'fade' thanks to Lost Boys Barbers and MyPayNow.

With the events theme being 'For Our Elders,' it was important for the event to recognise that across every generation, Elders have played, and continue to play, an important role and hold a prominent place in Australia's communities and families. 

Bundjalung man and current Titans NRL player, Brian Kelly spoke on what the Titans' NAIDOC events mean to him.

"Family, celebration, culture, and coming together as one is what the day is all about," Kelly said.

While Kelly's wing partner Alofiana Khan-Pereira (Bundjalung) spoke of his pride in the day and the joy he has in attending each year.

"It is honestly one of the best days of the year and it makes me proud of my culture and to be Indigenous," Khan-Pereira said.

"The boys (NRL squad) are genuinely having a great time also, which is fantastic to see."

Beyond just NRL players, the entire Titans organisation was present a the event with staff across the club's football program, administration, netball and even the board present.

Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said the event was an important one on the Titans calendar.

"It is such a special day to see our communities come together and celebrate Indigenous culture," he said.

"Although the original date was rained out, for the second year in a row, it hasn't stopped the crowds coming out to celebrate.

"We are proud of our work with Indigenous members of our community and this day is just one way to highlight that."

The Titans will again celebrate NAIDOC week in 2024, with a finalised date for this year's event still to be confirmed in the coming months.