Gadhu Gathering unites Sydney league fans

The NRL believes the Gadhu Gathering to celebrate Indigenous culture across the community this weekend has the power to unite league fans in celebration of Indigenous culture.

Seven Sydney NRL clubs will come together for four games at Allianz Stadium across three days this weekend.

The Roosters kick off the event with a Friday-night blockbuster against the Bulldogs.

South Sydney play Parramatta on Saturday evening before the West Tigers women meet St George Illawarra Dragons and the men play Manly.

Tne idea came from the Roosters, based in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, who wanted to create a special event for the league’s Indigenous round.

“We have Anzac Day and our Emergency Services Round and we wanted to create another marquee event,” chief executive Joe Kelly told NRL.com.

“Indigenous Round is a landmark week for our club, our game and our city.

“This weekend is about paying tribute to the rich culture and excellence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We’re proud to play our part in honouring their contribution to the game and our country.”

The word ‘gadhu’ refers to a large body of water such as the ocean in Dharawal, the overarching language spoken by the Aboriginal people belonging to Coastal Sydney.

Gadhu Gathering symbolises the gathering or coming together of communities to celebrate a shared passion for rugby league and culture.

And there could be history at the event, with South’s Indigenous star Alex Johnston needing three tries to equal the scoring record of 212 set by North Sydney’s Ken Irvine.

The Roosters will wear the 2025 Indigenous Jersey in honour of player #637 Kevin Stevens, designed by his niece Casey Armfield‑Stevens.

The jerseys will be up for auction after the match, with proceeds going to the Kari Foundation.

Go to NRL.com for game information.