Health and culture on show for Vibe 3on3

The Wheel of Life was turning, basketballs were flying and students of all ages were strutting their stuff on the dance floor at last week's Vibe 3on3 Hip Hop and Basketball Challenge in Goulburn, New South Wales.

Sponsored by the Australian Government, the event travels the nation to promote the importance of healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture with primary and high school students.

“You guys are our future, so we need you to have a healthy body and a healthy mind,” Vibe CEO Gavin Jones told the crowd.

“Today is all about celebrating being young and what you want to achieve.”

More than 400 students competed in basketball, dance and rap challenges, representing schools from the New South Wales Southern Tablelands and surrounding areas, including Goulburn, Wollondilly, Moss Vale, Braidwood, Queanbeyan, Yass and Wombat.

They were led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentors, who shared their skills in workshops and gave some important advice on how to live a long and healthy life.

“Dancing has taken me all around the world,” dance mentor Darren Compton said.

“It’s my passion, it’s what I love and it’s helped me stay fit and healthy and strong.”

Other mentors included Olympian Benn Harradine, rapper Yung Nooky, singer Casey Donovan, Move it Mob Style dancer Jacqui Cornforth, comedian and artist Kevin Kropinyeri, football star Claude Williams and Australia’s Got Talent finalist Matty Shields.

The event also featured a health and Indigenous culture trivia game called The Wheel of Life, drumming circles, juggling, art workshops, a dance-off competition, and a health expo with free ear checks.

There have been more than 130 Vibe 3on3 events held across Australia since 1999. Registrations for upcoming events can be made through the Vibe website.

Dancer Darren Compton at Vibe 3on3, Goulburn, NSW.