The inaugural Indigenous All Stars v All Stars match on 13 February 2010 was a resounding success with a 16-12 win to the Indigenous All Stars.

The match celebrated Indigenous culture in Australia and featured the NRL’s current best players. Held on the second anniversary of the Prime Minister’s Apology to the Stolen Generations, the game was played at Skilled Park on Queensland’s Gold Coast in front of almost 27 000 fans who came from every state and territory in Australia to watch this unique event. 

The occasion also provided an opportunity for Indigenous Australians to see a range of career options at the Former Origin Greats (FOGS) Employment and Careers Market held before the game. Seventeen local and national organisations including BHP Billiton, NAB, Spotless, Coles and Woolworths profiled their businesses and the opportunities they have available for Indigenous Australians.

The Australian Government sponsored the game and the forthcoming series of FOGS career expos under the banner of Learn Earn Legend!. The message emphasises the importance of young Indigenous people getting a good education so they can reach their career aspirations.

Learn Earn Legend! ambassador Scott Prince will encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to get an education or training to ensure a brighter future for themselves and their community.

The NRL’s Indigenous All Stars game is supported by the Australian Government as part of its commitment to close the gap on Indigenous disadvantage.

Left to Right: Minister Arbib, Gene Miles (Former Origin Great), Minister Maklin, David Gallop (NRL CEO), Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, Wally Lewis (Former Origin Great) at the Former Origin Greats (FOGS) Employment and Careers Market. Photo courtesy of Former Origin Greats.