Federal Member for Werriwa, Chris Hayes MP today joined with the Hon Paul Lynch MP, Member for Liverpool and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Wendy Waller, Liverpool City Council Mayor to officially launch the 2010 Vibe 3on3® at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre.

Mr Hayes said “The Vibe 3on3® brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people for a fun free day of basketball, dancing, music, health and culture”.

“Importantly, the event is being held as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations, which runs during the first week of July”.

“What is so wonderful about this event is that it encourages sportsmanship, teaches new skills and builds self-esteem, as well as promoting reconciliation at a grassroots level” said Mr Hayes.

The event today in Casula will be the third in as many years in the Liverpool LGA, and has grown in popularity, with more than 200 students and teachers in attendance from approximately 20 schools across South Western Sydney.

“This comes as no surprise; given NSW have the largest Aboriginal population in Australia with almost 30,000 Aboriginal people calling Western and South Western Sydney home” said Mr Hayes.

“If we are to move forward together as a nation, and build a stronger and fairer Australia in the twenty-fist century, we must address the appalling gap between the life opportunities enjoyed by Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

“Addressing Indigenous disadvantage is a national responsibility that will require the energy and commitment of all Australians and the Australian Government is resolutely determined to change this reality”.

“This vision is also shared by VIBE Australia and GJC through events like these and they should be congratulated for their real determination to make a difference” said Mr Hayes.