AFLNT in conjunction with remote projects partner FaHCSIA, and the Anindilyakwa Land Council launched a new structured football program for the Groote Eylandt communities on the weekend.
AFLNT in conjunction with remote projects partner FaHCSIA, and the Anindilyakwa Land Council launched a new structured football program for the Groote Eylandt communities on the weekend.
Football identity and AFL NAB Auskick Ambassador Robert ‘Dipper’ Dipierdomenico was on hand to assist with proceedings by staging a junior match.
Young locals participated in football for the first time with the help and guidance of Regional Development Manager Robert Clements, launching the program off to a great start.
The junior game was followed by formal proceedings and the official launch given by AFLNT CEO Tony Frawley, AFL Ambassador Michael Long and local elder and Vice Chairman of the Anindilyakwa Land Council , Walter Amagula “Football brings people and communities together,” stated Long, “It is a chance for these people to come together for a structured competition on a weekly basis.”
Following the junior game was a senior exhibition game between local miners from Groote Eylandt and the Indigenous All Stars. This was the first senior grade game of Australian Rules Football on the Island for eight years with the Miners overcoming the gallant efforts of the Indigenous All Stars at the final siren.
“It will be a slow process but given time we aim to have this program up and running similar to that of the Wadeye football competition, where there are now six teams in a structured football competition. We are looking to add another two to the season fixture next season,” said Frawley.
The program on Groote Eylandt although in its early stages is another positive step for the AFL in the top end. It will encompass the Angurugu, Alyangula, Umbakumba and Milyakburra communities.
“The aim is to have a side from each of these communities along with a local team from the mining township of Alyangula, all participating in a sustainable senior grade competition,” said Frawley.
The Groote Eylandt project is one of many remote projects currently being run and funded through the Federal Government partner FaHCSIA who also support the Wadeye and Elcho Island project.