Yarnin’

YARNIN’ addresses the underlying issue of racism in Australia by fostering understanding and connection between diverse communities through honest conversations. Targeting 15-35 year-olds, it tackles critical sub-issues such as loneliness, connection, fitness, nutrition, education, authority, addiction, and mental health. By featuring remote Aboriginal AFL footballers and famous AFL superstars, the series creates relatable role models and promotes open dialogue around challenges young Australians face. It aims to break down stereotypes, build empathy, and inspire positive action, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society.

YARNIN’ will ignite a cultural shift among 15–35-year-old Australian sports fans, especially football lovers, encouraging open conversations about issues that matter.
With male suicide the leading cause of death for Australian men, societal pressures have taught boys to “man up”, while grown men are expected to connect emotionally—skills many never develop. This imbalance is pushing men to seek guidance online and within social media, losing touch with face-to-face connection and driving up addictions to social media, gambling, drugs, alcohol, pornography and gaming. YARNIN’ demonstrates the power of real conversations, showing how meaningful dialogue – across cultures and differences – can equip young Australians to confront modern challenges, foster belonging, and thrive.

YARNIN’ aims to inspire 15-35-year-old football fans to embrace connection as the key to thriving in the 21st century. We want to show that building meaningful relationships—with teammates, opposition players, and coaches—can foster a sense of belonging and resilience. Instead of numbing pain through social media and addiction, we envision players sharing emotions in safe spaces, like dissecting a loss with teammates – learning how to turn setbacks into growth. Our goal is to strengthen ties between First Nations football communities and their AFL counterparts.
We plan to create a “Yarnin’ Online Centre” offering practical resources, tips, and exclusive player content to address common challenges. This platform will support a fundraising initiative enabling young teams from remote regions to travel for games and cultural exchange. Ultimately, we aspire to host an annual YARNIN’ CUP, with young players from across Australia competing, attending workshops, and meeting their heroes.

YARNIN’s producers—Ryan Liddle (Luritja man, ABC Alice Springs & Katherine Editor), Craig Jupurulla Woods (Mutitjulu man, Uluru Ranger), and Adam Morgan (Owner, Imara Films)—have deep, decades-long connections to the communities featured in YARNIN’.
Adam first worked with Anangu Mob in the late 1990s as a footy coach at Lockleys Football Club and a youth worker for the Wiltja Residential Program, where Craig was a student. In 1999, Adam and his late son James visited the APY Lands to promote Wiltja and umpire a football carnival, forging lasting relationships with over 16 APY communities.
Ryan and Craig are lifelong friends, with family ties to each other and across the region. Ryan and Adam have collaborated on screen productions and voiceovers for over a decade. Adam’s extensive football career as a Level 1 AFL Coach, includes coaching, leadership, and SANFL roles, while Ryan and Craig’s familial and professional connections ensure authentic access to all communities involved in YARNIN’.

Engage in Team Sports & Activities: Get involved in football or any team sport to build connections, authentic experiences, and develop resilience. If you’re already part of a team, deepen your involvement—stay after games to watch and reflect with friends, teammates and mentors.
Open Up About Your Feelings: Share your emotions, challenges, and victories with teammates, friends, and family. Conversations can help build understanding and mutual support.
Ask for Help When Needed: Reach out to trusted individuals, mentors, or mental health resources when you’re struggling. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Foster Empathy and Unity: We’re all facing struggles and need each other, no matter the colour of our skin. Recognise our shared humanity and strength in diversity.
Learn About and Appreciate Other Cultures: Take the time to understand cultures different from your own. Building connections across cultural boundaries can lead to powerful friendships and insights.