Empowering First Nations kids and building a more inclusive community through Judo

Far North Queensland judo club, Coral Coast Judo, is reaping the benefits of a multi-year project to build community through helping local kids build better futures.

The Mossman-based club embarked on a transformative journey mid-2023 by securing a $12,000 Queensland government grant to engage First Nations children and adolescents in judo. Some 84 children and teenagers jumped at the opportunity.

Coral Coast Judo worked with local service providers, schools and community members to identify children at risk, and offer them two free “come and try” judo sessions.  The program, funded by the Queensland Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport's First Nations Sport and Recreation Program, then had to be expanded to harness the talent and passion for judo it had unlocked.

The club then developed a program that spanned 12 months of registration and coaching, covered entry fees and transport to and from local and regional competitions,  and involvement in club, state and National judo events such as campouts on the mats and J-Girls.

Several of the students recruited through the program have become competitive judoka, including young Neveah Barney, a gold medallist at the 2025 Queensland State Titles.  Others are happy not to compete, instead reaping the benefits of pure fun delivered within the judo framework.

Coral Coast Judo president, Jeff Anderson, reports that the Club has deliver more than 500 free lessons to local kids. The program's popularity led to the addition of two extra lessons per week to accommodate the growing number of white belts, while still catering to more advanced judoka.​

“This initiative exemplifies the power of community collaboration and sport in empowering young kids and teenagers,” Mr Anderson said.

“We are proud to help all of our young judoka to build resilience and discipline as well as develop their physical skills.  We are particularly proud to be able to introduce First Nations people from our communities to the power of judo.”

Coral Coast Judo is home to several current and former National Champions and boasts a team of experienced coaches, including a Queensland State Coach and an internationally accredited IJF coach, ensuring all members from beginners to international level players, receive quality instruction and support.​

For more information about Coral Coast Judo and its programs, visit coralcoastjudo.org.​

Photos:

Above: Coral Coast President Jeff Anderson congratulates Neveah Barney on her gold medal from the 2025 Queensland State Championships.

Below: Neveah in her gold medal match at States, and Coral Coast Judo keeping the fun in judo for everyone.