Footy, Culture, and Connection: Matilda Husband’s Journey Through the Kimberley

Old Scholar Matilda Husband (Class of 2016) recently embarked on a journey that was more than just kilometres on a map — it was an exploration of culture, connection, and the unifying force of footy.

Representing her WAFLW club, the Claremont Tigers, Matilda travelled from Kununurra to Broome, stopping in communities such as Warmun, Frog Hollow, Yiramalay, Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing. Along the way, she and her teammates ran football clinics for local children and youth, sharing not only skills and drills but joy, encouragement, and a deep appreciation for the spirit of the game.

“Whether it was a handball drill on red dirt and barefoot or a group huddle under the blazing Kimberley sun, footy brought us together and broke down barriers instantly,” Matilda shared.

In Fitzroy Crossing, the group extended their outreach to include local coaches and team managers, focusing not just on game plans, but on how sport can foster growth, pride, and unity in communities often facing significant challenges.

But beyond the oval, it was the connection to Country and culture that left the most lasting impact. Immersed in breathtaking landscapes and the richness of Indigenous heritage, Matilda found herself deeply moved by the stories, resilience, and strength of the communities she encountered.

“The trip was a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit of remote communities,” she said. “It’s a connector — a source of identity, joy, and community.”

Returning to Perth, Matilda brings with her a renewed sense of gratitude for the game, for the people she met, and for the systems of support so easily taken for granted. She also acknowledges the layered and complex challenges faced by remote communities in the Kimberley, particularly those impacting early childhood development, from access to healthcare and education to housing and nutrition.

Her reflections offer an important reminder of sport’s ability to bridge divides and bring people together — even in the most remote corners of our country.