Six years ago, Naracoorte United launched the Multicultural Carnival to strengthen connections with the town’s diverse communities. What began as a simple idea, teams from different cultures playing football and sharing food, has grown into a major annual event supported by the Migrant Resource Centre, Naracoorte Lucindale Council, and local employer Teys.
The carnival now features 20+ teams across male, female, and junior divisions, with community groups serving traditional cuisine. Importantly, it also led to the club’s first steps in developing female football, prompting a series of upgrades to facilities.
With support from grants, including a 2023 ‘Power of Her’ grant, the club built new changerooms, developed a second pitch, and carried out major works to ensure both playing surfaces are of equal quality. The next step, lighting for the second pitch to support more training for women and girls.
The club’s progress has been strengthened through Football Australia’s Club Changer program, which helped them establish policies and procedures to better access funding. As a 2-star Club Changer accredited club, Naracoorte United has also developed a dedicated Female Participation Plan, resulting in more female players, coaches, and soon, referees.
Participation in the National Volunteer Focus Group also helped grow the club’s volunteer base to support their expanding programs.
Naracoorte United is a shining example of how football can unite communities, drive inclusion, and create real pathways for women and girls in regional areas.
Click here for more information about the Club Changer program.