When Melbourne Storm head west to Boorloo / Perth for the NRL's Indigenous Round this weekend, they'll be bringing First Nations people and culture to the centre of celebrations.
Wholly Muntulgura Guruma-owned - by Traditional Owners Tania Stevens and Samantha Connors - mining and resources sector contractor Eastern Guruma is keen to see them come over, as the club's official community partner for the match.
It's the Storm's first match in WA since 2018, hosting the Sea Eagles at HBF Park.
Storm chief executive Justin Rodski and Eastern Guruma Indigenous business development manager Chris Cowan both believe their partnership and Saturday is about more than a game of footy.
"It's about celebrating culture, strengthening community connections and creating opportunities for young people through rugby league," Mr Rodiski said.
Mr Cowan said they're thrilled to come together for Indigenous Round.
"It's a brilliant celebration of culture, identity and Indigenous excellence and a great opportunity to bring our people, employees and the wider WA community together," Mr Cowan said.
Eastern Guruma, with deep roots in the Pilbara, sees their real measure of success in "the opportunities we create for Aboriginal people".
"Through creating business and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people, our community partnerships with groups like Melbourne Storm, West Coast Eagles and others, we're focused on turning opportunity into lasting impact and true economic empowerment," Mr Cowan added.
As a community partner, the company's contribution to Aboriginal employment, leadership and community development, is one the Storm is proud to support.
Melbourne will arrive at HBF Park looking to make a statement on Saturday.
The club are, all but the slight mathematical possibilities, destined to miss finals for the first time since 2010 sitting 12th on the ladder.
Manly, without a win since June, are right in the scrap for eighth spot with four games remaining, sitting in 10th spot.
When the two head into the sheds for halftime, Eastern Guruma's footprint on the day is set to go a little deeper.
Boorloo-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community sporting organisation rugby league club Gur Wirimalpa Dreamtime Warriors junior players will run out onto the ground to play during the break.
Eastern Guruma are sponsors of the Dreamtime Warriors.
Mr Cowan said it will be a "huge moment" seeing the young footballers run out.
"We've proudly sponsored the club for many years, and this gives the players a chance to represent their families, community and culture on a major stage," he said.
"They'll bring real energy to the occasion and showcase the strength of Indigenous rugby league in WA."
