Essendon returned to the Northern Territory in April, strengthening its connection with communities across the Tiwi Islands and West Arnhem Land as part of its ongoing First Nations Strategy.
AFLW players Mia Busch and Amy Gaylor, alongside The Long Walk’s Jack Peris, joined Essendon’s Community and Player Pathways team for the visit. The group delivered football clinics, joined classroom sessions, and supported Youth Academy training, where some of the region’s most promising young talent is developing.
For Essendon’s Strategy and Growth Lead Kristen Bull, the visit is about far more than football.
“One of our favourite things to do here is spend time at the oval,” Bull said.
“Footy is part of everyday life, kids are kicking a ball as soon as they can walk. The warmth and welcome we receive from communities across the Top End is something really special.”
After time on the Tiwi Islands, the group returned to Darwin to attend AFL NT Academy training, gaining a firsthand look at the next wave of Northern Territory talent. The visit also marked a meaningful return to West Arnhem Land, with the group travelling to Jabiru to reconnect with community and continue building relationships in the region.
At Jabiru Area School, Essendon staff and players joined students in both classroom and practical settings, while also taking part in cultural experiences at Nourlangie Rock and the Marrawuddi Arts and Culture Centre.
Busch said the experience reinforced the importance of visibility and long-term pathways.
“Inspiring young people, especially girls, is something I feel incredibly privileged to do as an Essendon player,” Busch said.
“The talent here is outstanding. It makes you want to do more to support pathways for Indigenous players into our game. I’d love to see future Bombers come from our Next Generation Academy zones in Tiwi and West Arnhem Land.”
For Gaylor, the visit deepened her connection to the Club’s First Nations heritage and its ties to the Top End.
“Having played in the AFLW Dreamtime game in Darwin, learning more about First Nations history and culture has been really important,” Gaylor said.
“It gives me a greater appreciation of Essendon’s connection to players like Michael Long, Dean Rioli and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti. I’d love to see more players from the NT coming through into the AFLW.”
The trip forms part of Essendon’s long-term commitment to the region, with a focus on sustained engagement across both the Tiwi Islands and West Arnhem Land.
“Returning to West Arnhem Land is an important part of our work,” Bull said.
“We’re committed to building genuine, long-term relationships and creating opportunities for young people in these communities.
Bringing players here each year helps inspire the next generation, but it also has a lasting impact on our people. It’s a powerful reminder of why connection matters.”
Essendon will face Richmond in the men’s Dreamtime at the ‘G clash on May 22.
