AFL is returning to the Red Centre on Sunday, 2 July 2023, when the Melbourne Football Club will take on GWS Giants at TIO Traegar Park, adding another Major Event to our bustling calendar.
A busy community engagement program provides plenty of other opportunities for footy fans to get involved, in Alice Springs, and the wider Central Australian regions.
Representatives from the Demons will take part in a development clinic at TIO Traeger Park on Saturday, 1 July 2023 from 2.30-3.30pm. This will be followed by the Demons Captain's Run from 3.30-4.30pm. Both the clinic and the Captain's Run are open to the public.
There is something for Giants fans too, with a GWS Giants Open Training session set to take place at TIO Stadium from 1pm on Saturday, including the chance to meet players, win tickets and grab a giveaway.
There will also be giveaways and tickets sales at Yeperenye Shopping Centre and in Todd Mall from 9.30-11.30am on the Saturday.
Representatives from the Melbourne Football Club will also visit Yuelamu, where players from six communities will take part in a footy carnival, as well as Santa Teresa, where residents can take part in activations and games. The club has had a close connection to the community ever since it made a commitment to grass the Santa Teresa Oval. The project, which resulted in the creation of the 'MCG of the Desert', was finished in 2021.
On game day, Sunday, 2 July 2023, the on-field action kicks off at 1.50pm. Tickets are on sale now, with a big crowd expected to support the Red Centre's adopted team, Melbourne Football Club.
To secure your spot, visit here
Quotes from Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby:
"Bringing AFL to the Territory is about much more than simply a football match. As we saw with the Santa Teresa Oval project, the actual football game is just the tip of the iceberg.
"Melbourne's continued connection with communities across the Red Centre is just as important as the game they play, providing support, training and inspiration to a wide range of people.
"The regard with which Melbourne is held in the Red Centre is clear when you see how many people wear their colours, and turn up to watch the game. Our partnership with them is a valuable addition to Red Centre life."
Quotes from Melbourne Football Club CEO Gary Pert:
"This week's game in Alice Springs is one our players, coaches and staff really look forward to. It's an opportunity to not only showcase our club, but bring elite AFL football to a community of incredibly passionate supporters.
"We're really proud of our meaningful connection to the Alice Springs region, and the relationships we have formed with the local community. We are looking forward to, once again, immersing ourselves in the community and giving back.
"We see Alice Springs as a home away from home and can't wait to return."
Northern Territory Government
