Debbie Dates Towers has described the honour of having her Aboriginal artwork featured on the Newcastle Knights’ 2014 Indigenous jersey as a highlight of her career.
She says she will be filled with pride when the Knights run out on the ground at this Saturday’s Festival of Indigenous Rugby League trial match against the First Nations Goannas.
“I will have a tear in my eye. It’s wonderful,” Debbie beamed.
“It means something very special to me, being a person from country and born and bred here.
“It’s an honour to do it for Newcastle.”
Debbie has been creating art for more than 20 years and has sold her paintings and woodcarvings throughout Australia and the world.
“This is a highlight. This is one of the best and is priceless for me.”
Debbie explained the vibrant red and blue dot painting design tells a story of Elders teaching a dance move to children and conveys a local Aboriginal celebration of women and Elders.
The design features elements of the local environment and culture of the local Worimi people.
Yellow signifies sand and sand dunes, the white lines symbolise people traveling, clap sticks are used for dance and symbols of pipis characterise the food of the local Worimi people.
The elaborate dot design was created in just two weeks on canvass and was transferred to the printed jersey fabric.
Debbie said she thinks it’s significant for her, as a woman, to be given the opportunity to design the special edition playing jersey and sees it as a great way to acknowledge the important role women play in rugby league.
“I thought it was a wonderful idea, being a local Aboriginal woman.”
She believes the Festival of Indigenous Rugby League provides a valuable experience for young players involved and is a fantastic way to celebrate Indigenous culture in the community.
“I think it will be great for the youth and good for our people,” she said.
The jersey will be worn by the Knights during the trial match against the First Nations Goannas and later in the NRL season for the Close the Gap round.
The 2014 Indigenous Jersey is available now for purchase in Mens from $150 and Kids from $130 from the Hunter Sports Superstore and Online Superstore.
Limited numbers and sizes available.
Click Here to purchase Mens jersey.
Click Here to purchase the Kids.
Tickets are on sale now for the Festival of Indigenous Rugby League. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets now.
• General admission: Adults $18, Children $8, Family $45
• Reserved: Adults $25, Children $15, Family $65
