Above, I am pictured with my little cousin brothers and sisters from Lilisiana village in the Solomon Islands. They love to play soccer (futsal) in the Mammy Galo Futsal Competition every year. This competition is in memory of my Koko Geli (my wonderful Grandmother who had 12 children and over 100 grannies - a number that is growing!). The Futsal Competition aims to raise awareness about drug and alcohol abuse and encourage strength and pride in our young people. This years competition will take place in mid-December 2013.


Teams Marching to the Futsal Field.

In the past, the competition has been funded by my family here in Australia and through generous community donations from private fundraising in Australia and the Solomons. This year, we are seeking donations for the Futsal competition through this Pozible campaign and Pacific Community Partnerships, a small organisation we set up in 2009.


A show of sportsmanship before the game: 2011 Mammy Galo Futsal Competition

The Mammy Galo Futsal Competition is 100% run by community, for community. It aims to engage children and young people in sport and futsal - an activity that they love. Our young people face many challenges growing up in Lilisiana and the surrounding villages. Lilisiana has no electricity, no running water, no sanitation facilities with a population of about 1000 people - about half of the population is under the age of 18. Climate change is effecting the village with erosion and high tides limiting garden space. Access to education and health care is limited. However, small community based projects like the Mammy Galo Futsal Competition give our young people a positive activity to participate in, promotes team work, healthy living and builds community spirit.


Ready to go... Mammy Galo Fustal Competition 2010.


Action! Mammy Galo Fustal Competition 2011

And the Mammy Galo Futsal Competition has a message - to raise awareness about issues affecting young people like drugs and alcohol, the threat of HIV, health & family issues and racism. This event uses a common love of the people - sport - to bring community together in what has become an extremely popular annual event.

The competition is run on a sandy sports field (Aelagolo Stadium) by the sea in between coconut trees, it draws a large excitable crowd of supporters, the competitors play bare-foot and the competition runs over several days ending with a celebratory community event and awards presentation.

Teams march from the village to the Futsal field: Mammy Galo Futsal Competition 2010.

Here's what my Dad, John Batalibasi, wanted to share with you all:
"We wanted to do something important to commemorate my Mother, Madalena Galo. She was known as Mami (Mummy) to everyone as she had a very kind heart, sharing and caring for everyone. Doing something to help the youth in Lilisiana and surrounding villages seemed a wonderful way to continue the generousity and and care she showed to everyone."

The late Madalena Galo (Mammy/ Koko Geli) & Jack Baera (Koko Wale)

And some words from my Step-Mum Jacintha Batalibasi (a few years ago she was over there to attend the competition and as a special guest to present awards):
"This Futsal Competition is more than just about playing sport. It provides much needed encouragement for the young boys and girls that they are important and is a great opportunity to provide awareness and education about issues like drugs and alcohol. It has been wonderful in bringing people in Lilisiana and surrounding communities together. A time to celebrate and enjoy a community family event regardless of the hardships faced by many."

Jacintha Batalibasi presenting awards 2010.


Teams March through Lilisiana Village. Mammy Galo Futsal Competition 2012.


The competition draws a big crowd every year.


Mammy Galo's Cup: N.Kalo A FC - Winners 2011.

All funds go towards running costs, sports equipment and prizes for winning teams. This is the minimum amount needed to give a significant contribution to kick start this years competition.

We'll post photos on our Facebook page so you can see the results. This Pozible campaign is to help suppliment other fundraising done by the community themselves on the ground in the Solomon Islands. The funds will be managed by the Mammy Galo Futsal Committee - a team of dedicated community members who organise the entire event.


2012 Mummy Galo Futsal Competition Organising Committee.

The Mammy Galo Futsal Competition cannot go ahead without community support. Every Australian dollar helps to make it possible - especially with the exchange rate - one Australian dollar can be up to seven Solomon Dollars.


Mammy Galo's Cup 2011: Molumbros United Team - 4th place