Black Pearls: The Aboriginal and Islander Sports Hall of Fame

The Library is pleased to host the launch of Black Pearls: The Aboriginal and Islander Sports Hall of Fame. Join the Honorable Michael Gunner MLA Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, sporting legend Mr. Bennie Lew Fatt and sporting commentator Mr. Charlie King MC at the Darwin launch of this significant book by Colin and Paul Tatz.

Aboriginal and Islander athletes have helped shape Australia’s identity as a great sporting nation since the mid-1800s. The Aboriginal and Islander Sports Hall of fame was introduced in 1994 to celebrate the achievements of sporting heroes, honouring Aboriginal and Islander sportspeople for their skill in their chosen field and for their contribution to Aboriginal and Islander identity.

Department of Tourism and Culture, Senior Director Northern Territory Library and Archives, Patrick Gregory said that the Library looked forward to celebrating the sporting greats of Australia.

“We are honoured by the opportunity to host the book launch of Black Pearls which features many sporting legends who call the Northern Territory home.

“Names such as Michael Long, Bo del la Cruz and Nova Peris are hugely influential Territorians who have become national icons across Australia, serving as role models both on and off the field.”

Black Pearls reveals a history of inclusion and of Aboriginal determination in the face of enormous obstacles, and resilience in overcoming remoteness, discriminatory laws, incarceration on isolated reserves and opponents in a variety of sports arenas.

For tickets to the Black Pearls book launch, please visit our event listing page.