Gold Coast Suns to host Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn at TIO Stadium
The NT is in for three thrilling AFL games for 2025, with the fixtures locked in confirming two 2024 finals sides will take on the Suns at TIO Stadium. Check out the fixtures.
Northern Territory
Don't miss out on the headlines from Northern Territory. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Northern Territory AFL fans are in for another thrilling trio of high-profile matches in 2025, with two 2024 finalists making the trip north to take on the Gold Coast Suns.
The Suns, who are unbeaten in their past six matches at TIO Stadium, will host the Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn this time around.
However, they will be battling a short turnaround between matches with their Bulldogs meeting on May 10 before a Thursday battle with the Hawks on May 15.
The Hawthorn match will be the official opening game of the Sir Doug Nicholls Round, a round that celebrates the contributions of Indigenous players to the game.
The matches will be followed by the Territory’s leading music festival on May 17 at the iconic Mindil Beach offering a huge week of music and sport.
Melbourne will return to Alice Springs for their annual Heart of the Nation match on June 1 against St Kilda, continuing the long-standing relationship with the Red Centre community.
Head of AFLNT Sam Gibson said he was looking forward to be hosting the clubs in what promised to be an exciting set of matches for 2025.
“We look forward to once again hosting the Gold Coast Suns and Melbourne Football Club here in the Territory in 2025,” he said.
“Following the success of the matches in 2024, which saw strong crowds and solid TV viewership, these matches continue to build the Northern Territory’s strong connection to the national game.
“We’re excited to provide more opportunities for fans to experience top-tier footy.
“The AFL’s deep ties to the Territory continue to inspire the next generation of footy players and engage the community in ways that go beyond the game itself.”
These AFL games offer a unique opportunity to showcase the Territory’s world-renowned tourism experiences.
Fans and visitors will get the chance to explore the Territory, while the matches will provide chances to meet AFL heroes with community events throughout the week.
These games are supported by the Northern Territory Major Events Company, as part of the NT government’s commitment to bringing sporting events to the region.
The 2025 season will be the second of a three-year agreements ensuring two Suns games in Darwin each season through to 2026, while Melbourne will play a match in the Red Centre every year.
NT Major Events Company Acting chief executive Trevor Cox said they were thrilled to bring three more AFL games to the Territory.
“It’s even more special with both the Suns and Demons showcasing incredible NT talent, making this a memorable experience for local supporters,” he said.
“Partnering with elite sporting clubs not only brings top-flight sport to the region, but it also has a positive impact on the community.
“It boosts social engagement, with fans coming together to see their heroes, and contributes to the local economy as people visit bars, restaurants, and other venues.”
More Coverage
Originally published as Gold Coast Suns to host Western Bulldogs and Hawthorn at TIO Stadium
‘Unreserved apology’: Legal body issues shock apology to unlawfully sacked boss
A legal aid agency has been forced to apologise in an embarrassing backdown that had its day in court. Read who’s sorry.
Live stream: How to watch St Mary’s v Districts in Round 8
Can the champs stop the Crocs juggernaut? Southern Districts are flying high, but they likely haven’t faced an opponent of this quality yet this season. Find out how to watch the match LIVE.