TEACHERS - REGISTER FOR FREE RESOURCES OR A SCHOOL VISIT!
About Michael Long
Michael Long is one of the most recognisable Aboriginal figures in Australian Rules football and is renowned for his efforts both on and off the field. He played for the Essendon Football Club from 1989 to 2001, where he was a co-captain, winner of the 1993 Norm Smith Medal, 1993 and 2001 premiership player and made a stand against racial vilification in the AFL. In retirement he undertook The Long Walk to Canberra and continues to inspire Australians to make a difference.
Read MoreAbout The Long Walk
In November 2004, AFL legend Michael Long resolved to walk from his home in Melbourne all the way to Parliament House in Canberra, to put back on the agenda the seemingly forgotten plight of his people. Little did Michael realise that he would be walking into the history books as his personal trek caught the attention and support of hundreds of thousands of ordinary Australians. It was apparent that Australians had been looking for a way to express their support for Aboriginal people and their culture. Michael had shown them a way.
Read MoreHow It Helps
The Long Walk raises awareness to improve and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, well being and life opportunities. The charity raises awareness by presenting popular reconciliation events that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievement, and through programs like Walk the Talk. Its' work promotes understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and people to make Australia a better place for all Australians.
Read MoreHe was fantastic!!! The students loved it - in their words "EPIC!" :)
It was really well paced and a good balance of talk and video. Quite a few of our students said they'd be interested in taking some action.
The session was insightful, informative and highly engaging for all of our students. It provided a fantastic foundation for our Indigenous History unit.
Students enjoyed the great amount of information, spoken in ‘their language’ and the DVD was engaging.
It’s about all Australians reconciling. You can take some ideas about teamwork and leadership from the way a football team is run.
We need to understand Indigenous Australians in order to fix the problem between cultures.
What struck me the most is when Michael said that when we are older we are going to be leaders and it is our job to change society.
Activities
Which football team did Michael Long play for? Check out our quizzes and other fun activities.
Take Action
Ready to Walk the Talk? Start your own event, enter our challenge, volunteer and more.
Register Now
Sign up for a great range of educational resources including a Walk the Talk DVD or request a Paid School Visit.