John “Jak” Ah Kit was a fierce leader and advocate for First Nations people, so it was only fitting that the NAIDOC golf day celebration, which he originally founded, is named after him.
Jak, who was renowned for lighting up rooms with his cheeky humour, passed away in July 2020.
His son Jonathan said on behalf of the Ah Kit family, he wanted to give special thanks to the NAIDOC committee for recognising his father and his achievements.
“He always enjoyed participating in golf days and was very active in organising them,” he said.
“It was very special to play in the competition with a team of my family members.”
Buslink NT’s Community Engagement Manager and golf day committee member Colin Majid led a team of his own.
“We are proud to be involved in this popular NAIDOC event that aims to build an understanding and appreciation of the importance of recognising, protecting, and maintaining all aspects of Indigenous people’s culture and heritage,” he said.
The sold-out competition, staged at the Darwin Golf Club, involved 120 players in teams of six who tackled the course in Indigenous-themed outfits.
Teams were encouraged to vie for the prize of best-dressed, and Olympic gold medal winner and former politician Nova Peris, who participated with her friends and family as the ‘More Lovein 2021’ team, got into the NAIDOC spirit, taking out the title with their gear that showed off a great piece of Indigenous art.
Jonathan said this year’s event was a huge success and everyone “had a ball”.
“It’s great to get out and enjoy each other’s company and catch up, especially after the event was delayed a week due to COVID lockdowns.”
The two winning teams at the Jak Ah Kit Memorial Day were Mower World (nett winner), and City Tyre Service (gross winner).
The Jak Ah Kit Memorial Golf Day concluded Darwin’s busy calendar of NAIDOC Week events held from 11-21 July 2021.