Acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet, train and play.
The Gungahlin Eagles respect and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on this land and commit to building a brighter future together.
We are proud to play on Ngunnawal Country.
Our club was originally established as the Daramalan Rugby Club in 1967. The word Daramalan is derived from an Indigenous term, Daramala, which translates to ‘Eagle People’.
When the great wedge-tailed eagle appeared in the sky, the first nations people thought of the Great Spirit watching over their lives. The eagle symbol signifies a Great Spirit who enfolds and protects us all.
This week, NAIDOC week, we will partake in the John I Dent Indigenous Round.
NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians from all walks of life.
The week is a great opportunity to participate in a range of activities and to support your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
It is a timely reminder of why the Eagles have placed a unique indigenous pattern on the left shoulder of the 1st Grade jersey, which represents a meeting place, and the coming together of people.
The pattern was designed in 2018 by respected elder, and father of former Eagles’ Women’s captain Nakiya, Duncan Smith OAM, and instead of a one-off jersey, it was decided the indigenous link would be an ongoing recognition.
Duncan Smith OAM and his family are the Wiradjuri Echoes, an indigenous performance group. The group perform for the children and teach them about aboriginal culture through stories, art, song and dance. Visit their website for more information, or watch the below video to meet Duncan and his Mob.
In 2016 Duncan Smith was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his service to Indigenous youth and to the community. Congratulations Duncan.