THE South Coast Black Cockatoos' plans to host the 50th anniversary of the Koori Knockout are on track, as they prepare to stage the event at the Bomaderry Sports Complex over the October long weekend.
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It was unveiled Bomaderry would host the Indigenous carnival in December 2019, only for last year's event having to be postponed due to COVID-19.
But the Black Cockatoos committee has assured they are working extensively with the Shoalhaven City Council to ensure the venue is ready for the 2021 five-day carnival.
"We are excited to host the Koori Knockout on the South Coast for the first time and with the 50th anniversary being such a momentous occasion, we are working hard to deliver a successful and memorable event for everyone," a Black Cockatoos representative said.
"After the disappointing cancellation in 2020 due to COVID-19, we are working closely with the NSW government to ensure compliance with all requirements.
"The current NSW government COVID-19 public health order is due to be updated in May and once the new order is released, we will be better placed to understand what, if any restrictions will apply to this year's knockout event.
"The safety of Aboriginal communities across NSW is important to us and we are fully committed to providing a safe and enjoyable event.
"We will continue to work alongside the government as COVID requirements change and will provide updates as they become available."
The Black Cockatoos, who won the 2019 tournament at the Central Coast, have held a number of team delegate meetings and will continue to do so, to ensure all parties know how the event is progressing.
"We will continue to work with the team delegates, governing and sanctioning bodies, government and other stakeholders to ensure the 50th anniversary of the knockout is a success," the spokesperson said.
"Not only for teams but also the thousands of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people looking forward to this significant contemporary cultural event."