One of the founding players in 2011 in netball, which is the only all-female event out of 14 different sports, Petrina says that while she still plays, she has taken on more of a mentor role in the last few years.
She says it will be exciting to host the Sikh Games again locally after they were last held here in 2018.
“There are usually over 150,000 spectators both locally and from overseas including New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada and the UK,” she said.
“We look forward to our ‘mini Olympics’ every year but next year will be extra special.”
Australian Sikh Games Sydney President, Revesby’s Avtar Singh Sidhu (pictured top presenting trophy) said that beyond the sports competitions, cultural activities include dance and music-filled cultural nights that showcase traditional dances such as bhangra and giddha.
“The Games are highly community driven and would not be possible without the volunteers, committee members and sponsors,” he said.
“Even if you are not Sikh, you can get involved by refereeing, umpiring, spectating, donating or sponsorship; reach out to us via facebook.”
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said hosting the Games next year was a major coup.
“It will bring international recognition and huge economic benefits; local businesses and accommodation facilities can expect a spending bonanza,” he said.
“In fact, the most recent games which were held on the Gold Coast, delivered an estimated $83 million to the State’s economy.”
As well as waiving venue hire fees at facilities like the Dunc Gray Velodrome and The Crest Sporting Complex, the Mayor has proposed hosting a civic reception to mark the occasion.
Local Sikhs get ready to take on best in ‘Games’
AS thousands of competitors step up their training ahead of the 36th Australian Sikh Games in Adelaide at Easter, local organisers, including Revesby’s Petrina Singh (pictured top left accepting a trophy), is also working on next year’s event after it was announced Bankstown would be hosting the 2025 Games.
