The 5th annual CQID Indigenous ReconciliationCarnival was held at the Ian Coomb Oval at CQUniversity on the 27 - 29 January 2012. The event attracted 6000 spectators who watched teams froma all over the state play great rugby. Kowanyama, Cherbourg, Ipswich and Bundaberg came to compete against sides from Woorabinda, mackay, Gladstone and Rockhampton. The event was once again alcohol and drug free and had the duel theme of reconciliation and petrol sniffing prevention. The 'Sniffers dance" performed by Lester Adams and his Darambal dance group provided a strong message to the crowd and through role play and dance, reinforced the message that 'it's not cool to sniff fuel'.

Rhys Wesser was the new carnival Ambassador and this year saw the introduction of a reconciliation dinner. Guests were entertained by the local band Transformed and guest speakers such as former NRL players Leo Dynevor, Graham White and Rhys Wesser spoke about their journey from growing up to following their dreams and playing sport at the highest level.

The CQID Reconciliation Carnival saw the expansion of the men's competition to 22 teams and the women's challenge was contested by 4 teams. Two junior games included the U 12 girls game and the U 15 boys game.

A big thank you must go to all the volunteers and workers who gave up their time to assist at the carnival and to all the sponsors for their generous contribution to the carnival. Without the financial and in-kind support of sponsors, this carnival would not have been possible. A special thank you to the Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and also the Department of Communities   for major funding supplied. 

The Carnival  has a facebook page "CQID Reconciliation Carnival" and also has a website:  http://cqidcarnival.com.au You are encouraged to try them out. 

If you have any queries, contact Justin Loomans on phone 4920 0000.