Gold Coast Suns to play Geelong, North Melbourne at TIO Stadium in 2024
Three blockbuster AFL matches have been locked in for the NT in 2024, with a new partnership confirming multiple matches each year until 2026. Read which teams will be coming up north.
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Territory footy fans are in for a feast of AFL action in 2024, with three blockbuster fixtures confirmed throughout the season.
A new agreement between the NT government and AFL will see the Gold Coast Suns play two games in Darwin each year until at least 2026.
The first match will see the Suns take on North Melbourne on May 11, and just five days later they will face off against 2022 premiers Geelong.
The games take place just before the 2024 edition of BASSINTHEGRASS giving interstate footy fans a reason to stick around for another marquee event.
Gold Coast Suns chief executive Mark Evans said the matches were a chance for Territorians to see their home grown talent on the big stage.
“We are thrilled to once again have the opportunity to host back-to-back home games at TIO Stadium,” he said.
“The NT has become our second home and we have taken pride in our ability to make Darwin a fortress, where we play some of our best football.
“Whether it’s a dazzling Malcolm Rosas goal, Joel Jeffrey’s freakish athleticism, Ben Long’s signature toughness or Lloyd Johnston’s blistering speed, there will be plenty for the home crowd to cheer.”
Central Australia fans won’t be left out with home team Melbourne Demons set to take on Fremantle at TIO Traeger Park on June 2.
It’s a match which Melbourne chief executive Gary Pert said his side were “incredibly proud” to be a part of each year.
“We have been visiting Alice Springs for a decade now and, as a club, have developed such a strong connection to the region,” he said.
“We consider Traeger Park a home away from home, and our players love nothing more than when they get the opportunity to play there.”
There will be plenty of community engagement opportunities in the lead up to each match, while the games also provide an opportunity for interstate fans to experience the Territory.
Chief Minister and Major Events minister Natasha Fyles said the upcoming events would make the Territory the best place for footy, festivals and fun.
“These footy games not only bring elite sportspeople to the Territory, they support our local businesses, from accommodation to restaurants,” she said.
“Hosting the Darwin Territory AFL games earlier than usual also has economic benefits, supporting the shoulder season and a strong start to the Top End’s major events season.
“Some of Australia’s finest AFL players have come from the Territory, and our partnership with the AFL provides an avenue for Territorians to see elite sport in action without having to travel.”
To find out when tickets for the Territory’s AFL games go on sale, follow NTMEC on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ntmec
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