When the World Game Finds Its Way to the East Kimberley

Across the Kimberley, sport continues to be a powerful way for young people to connect, grow and feel proud of who they are. In the East Kimberley, soccer is fast becoming part of that story.

Since joining Garnduwa, East Kimberley Area Manager Sean Franz and Kununurra Senior Development Officer Silas Reasbeck have brought their shared love for the world game into community programs across Kununurra and Wyndham. That passion has translated into growing engagement, strong attendance and a noticeable shift in who is getting involved.

“Soccer in the East Kimberley is definitely on the up,” Silas says. “Even in the last 15 months, you can feel the change. It’s really cemented itself as the Kimberley’s third biggest sport.”

Girls Leading the Way

One of the most striking shifts has been the growth in female participation, particularly in Wyndham. Over the past three months, female participation in soccer programs has reached 53 per cent, compared to a Kimberley-wide average of 43 per cent.

Silas points to a mix of national inspiration and local opportunity.

“The Matildas changed the game for soccer in Australia,” he says. “That shift has reached every corner of the country – even little old Wyndham. The girls are leading the pack. They’re always asking to play soccer, and they’ve got everything you want to see: teamwork, discipline, attitude and real talent.”

What stands out most isn’t just skill, but how the girls play.

“They pass, they defend together, they support each other – and they love it,” Silas says. “Sometimes in other sports they get pushed aside, but with soccer they take their chance and really enjoy the team dynamic.”

From School Yards to the Carnival Pitch

That enthusiasm is showing up everywhere – at school, during breaks, and again after school through Garnduwa programs at the rec centre.

“It’s no surprise both Wyndham schools made the semi-finals at the East Kimberley Interschool Soccer Carnival,” Silas says. “One team went on to win the whole tournament.”

The carnival brought schools from Kununurra and Wyndham together and showcased the confidence and character of young people across the region.

“Teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline and plenty of goals,” Silas says. “Kids from all walks of life came together. It really showed the potential that exists here in the East Kimberley.”

For Silas, one moment stood out.

“Coaching Wyndham St Joseph’s during Term 4, then seeing them come from behind, beat their local rivals and go on to win the tournament – that was unreal. Three Indigenous boys took home individual awards too. I felt incredibly proud to play even a small part in their journey.”

Culture, Connection and What Comes Next

For Silas, soccer’s impact goes beyond the pitch. He sees strong opportunities to further embed culture and community leadership into the game.

“There’s no reason soccer can’t reflect local culture here,” he says. “Whether it’s Aboriginal art on jerseys, elders opening matches, or seeing more Aboriginal referees and coaches – that’s how the game really belongs.”

Importantly, soccer has also become a space where boys and girls play together, breaking down barriers that sometimes exist in other sports.

“It’s brought people together, no question,” Silas says. “Mixed sessions, shared teams, everyone on the same pitch. That connection helps kids feel good, builds confidence and inspires them to try new things.”

Looking ahead, Silas hopes to see junior soccer pathways grow across the East Kimberley – from regular community sessions to a regional junior league, and even visits from elite players.

“With the right people involved, it’s absolutely possible,” he says. “Soccer can keep opening doors for kids and communities.”