Kings of the Kimberley

The Argyle Diamonds Kings of the Kimberley basketball event in Halls Creek at the weekend was a resounding success.

The event was aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyle.

More than 1500 people attended.

The women's competition attracted 10 registered teams including one from Kununurra.

The men's competition attracted 14 teams, also including one from Kununurra

Other local Halls Creek sponsors included the Shire of Halls creek, the two competing town motels and the four competing supermarkets.

The local Aboriginal corporation also sponsored the event financially and supplied volunteers to assist facilitation.

The 'Kimberley Mob' were named Kings of the Kimberley in the men's division after defeating 'The Wizards' from Derby by 1 point, 30-31.

The '8 Mile Blazers' were named Queens of the Kimberley after defeating the local Halls Creek team.

Argyle Diamond Mine representative Rowena Lupton presented the winning teams with individual medallions and $1000 in cash to each team.

She said: "Combining the heat, isolation and lack of structured activities, Halls Creek embraces the opportunity to host activates such as this and the Croc Festival.

"Not only do they attract people and revenue into the township, but they instil community pride and the opportunity for friendly competition against other surrounding remote communities and towns.

"From what I saw, behaviour was excellent from players and supporters alike considering basketball is the most popularly competitive sport in the East Kimberley second only to football."

The first games began on Friday night with fierce competition in both the men's and women's divisions.

The response was so good that organisers will have money to kick-start next year's competition with the addition of live bands and competitions and events for younger spectators.

The canteen raised money for the Connor Butters Appeal and Halls Creek Youth Services.

It was the last time the competition will be held at the Town Hall Courts; next year it will be at the new swimming/sports complex on undercover basketball courts.

Organisers thanked sponsors, and volunteers as well as Debbie from Yura Yangi, who kept the players supplied with water and oranges.

Results were: Women's - 1st 8 Mile Blazers; runners up Halls Creek; Fairest and Best Stacey Bedford (HC); runner up Samaya Martin (8 Mile Blazers); Most Valuable Player Samaya Martin.

Men's: 1st East Kimberley Mob; runners up Wizards; Fairest and Best S. Calwyn (EKM)