AFL Northern Territory (AFL NT) welcomes the significant investment from the Northern Territory Government into Woodroffe Oval as part of the 2024/25 budget.
The $6.5m commitment will deliver much needed capacity for football in Palmerston, whilst crucially establishing a home for one of the NTFL’s longest standing clubs, the Darwin Buffaloes Football Club.
With Palmerston boasting more than 35,000 residents, and substantial football participation numbers, the project will provide significant positive benefits to the broader community twelve months a year. The introduction of the Darwin Buffaloes at the oval, an established community club with around 500 playing members, will have a notable impact on the community.
Since the establishment of the feasibility study, the development of Woodroffe Oval has been an ongoing priority of AFLNT. In addition to the investment from the Northern Territory Government, AFLNT has also committed $250k to the project.
Head of AFL Northern Territory, Sam Gibson spoke about the importance of the project.
“With approximately 60% participation growth in the NTFL since 2021, the development of more ovals across the Top End is a high priority of AFLNT’s. We welcome this budget commitment and thank the NT Government for supporting what is a very exciting project.
“We know how important sporting clubs are to the fabric of communities, the addition of the Darwin Buffaloes to Palmerston is not only a massive step for the club, but also a great thing for Palmerston.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the NT Government, NT Cricket, the Palmerston Cricket Club and the Darwin Buffaloes to bring this project to fruition.
President of the Darwin Buffaloes Football Club, Brenda Atkinson said “We’re thrilled with the announcement today, as a grassroots, volunteer-run organisation this funding secures the long-term sustainability for future generations. We’re excited for what the future holds.”
The Woodroffe Oval redevelopment will also deliver on other AFL NT strategic priorities that relate to participation, club sustainability, growth, diversity and inclusion.
