Every June long weekend, the Sikh community hold a two-day event at Ted Scobie Oval against the backdrop of Scenic Hill in Griffith. This year, the Sikh community of Griffith will mark the 23rd chapter of the annual Shaheedi Tournament on 8th and 9th June 2019.
The annual meet is a representation of the Sikh community’s competitive spirit, an event that forms an integral part of the community’s social calendar.
Anup Singh Nagra who is the Secretary of the Gurdwara Singh Sabha Society, Griffith, told SBS Punjabi that the special arrangements have been made for the two-day spectacle of sport and culture.
“The preparations are in the final stages now. The games registration process is complete. We have a huge response for soccer, volleyball, athletics and Kabaddi,” he said.
“We will look after our guests with free food and drinks [Langar]. The attendees will be able to enjoy traditional Punjabi cuisine throughout the two-day carnival.”
Mr Nagra said the major attraction of the tournament is Kabaddi, which is a hugely popular sport within the Punjabi community.
“The Kabaddi event is of course the most eagerly awaited sports at the Ted Scobie Oval in Griffith,” he said.
“At least seven teams are lined up for this year’s competition. The spectators will be able to watch some big names of Kabaddi from Australia, India, New Zealand and Canada.”
Mr Nagra said that the Shaheedi Tournament in Griffith is organised in the memory and honour of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their elite faith and Sikh values of life.
“Since this event has a religious significance, we request all guests to help maintain a non-alcoholic environment,” he said.