"Backyard Footy" By Carl Merrison, Samantha Campbell (Illustrator)
Backyard Footy is a vibrant and heartwarming story that celebrates imagination, friendship, and cultural pride. Set in the Kimberley region, young Jy plays footy solo in his backyard until a well-placed kick sends his ball over the fence—and begins a joyous chain of events.
What starts as a solo game turns into a community celebration, as Jy is joined by cousins, friends, and neighbours. This book captures the essence of childhood in remote Australia, highlighting how play can build connection and bring people together.
Written by Carl Merrison, winner of the black&write! Fellowship, this book is the first in the Backyard Sports series, which aims to reflect First Nations kids’ real lives, showcasing Indigenous strength, joy, and culture through sport.
- ISBN: 9780734421517
- ISBN-10: 0734421516
- Audience: Children
- For Ages: 3+ years old
- Format: Hardcover
- Language: English
- Number Of Pages: 32
- Published: 31st May 2023
- Publisher: Lothian Children's Books
- Dimensions (cm): 0.9 x 25.6 x 25.6
- Weight (kg): 0.4
- Edition Number: 1
More About The Artist
More About The Artist


About Carl Merrison
About Carl Merrison
Carl Merrison is a proud and respected Jaru/Kija man from the Kimberley region, who was named WA Runner-Up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. With over a decade of experience mentoring Aboriginal youth through education, AFL and community programs, Carl is deeply committed to empowering young people and celebrating culture.
As an award-winning author, Carl writes in collaboration with Hakea Hustler, bringing powerful and authentic stories to life. Their works include Black Cockatoo (a CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots - all rich in culture, heart and strength. Through his writing, Carl continues to inspire the next generation with stories that reflect identity, resilience and pride.
Carl Merrison is a proud and respected Jaru/Kija man from the Kimberley region, who was named WA Runner-Up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. With over a decade of experience mentoring Aboriginal youth through education, AFL and community programs, Carl is deeply committed to empowering young people and celebrating culture.
As an award-winning author, Carl writes in collaboration with Hakea Hustler, bringing powerful and authentic stories to life. Their works include Black Cockatoo (a CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots - all rich in culture, heart and strength. Through his writing, Carl continues to inspire the next generation with stories that reflect identity, resilience and pride.