The Bennelong Cup, hosted by Bennelong Energy Services, is an annual event in New South Wales, Australia, that uses the power of sport to create real career opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
This year’s tournament brought together 20 teams from corporate and community organisations, including the Gallagher Security NSW and ACT team.
Each of Gallagher Security Australia’s state-based teams receive funds to support local community initiatives, and this year marked the first time Gallagher sponsored the event.
For the players, says David Issa, State Manager for NSW and ACT, it was a chance to give back to the community, share experiences and speak to the many career opportunities people can find in the security industry, and of course, to bring some slick footy skills to the field.
For the students, it was an opportunity to meet industry leaders, ask questions, and explore career pathways, all while doing something they love: playing footy.
“From the first whistle, the energy was electric,” says David.
“Our team hit the field with enthusiasm, and plenty of skill – with thanks in part to the fantastic team we pulled together! I also recruited a few extra players from the security industry, and a friend who is an experienced rugby league player. We knew the teams would be competitive, so we wanted to be prepared.”
David says after a wobbly first game, the team regrouped, talked strategy, tightened the defence, and proudly made it all the way to the finals.
“Sport has a way of breaking down barriers. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what your story is - on the field, everyone is equal. That’s what made the Bennelong Cup so special.”
David says one of the key reasons why Gallagher supported this year’s event was to help invest in the local community and to support opportunities that last long after the final whistle.
“We chose to support the Bennelong Cup because of its genuine engagement with the Indigenous community and its commitment to creating career pathways.
“Sport also plays an important role in the Indigenous community, and coming together through sport creates strong relationships, something we deeply value at Gallagher.
“The Bennelong Cup is a great initiative for the indigenous community and for the future of the industry. There aren’t many formal courses for electronic security certification, so events like these are fantastic opportunities.
“When we help young people step confidently into employment, we strengthen our industry well into the future,” says David.
“These young athletes will be future leaders, technicians, and innovators, and we can’t wait to see their careers grow – on and off the field.”