AFLW's Indigenous Round will commence this week and will take place across rounds three and four. For the third consecutive year, Essendon has the privilege to take on Richmond at TIO Stadium in Darwin for Dreamtime.
The Dons will be wearing a guernsey designed by Gunditjmara woman Aunty Karen Lovett. The artwork, titled “A Piece of Me”, symbolises her journey growing up in institutions, honours Elders who have passed, and reflects important symbols of Country. The design also highlights different Aboriginal art styles and acknowledges those who have survived through policies and systems.
This guernsey design was worn by the Bombers during the AFL’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round, where Essendon faced Richmond for the annual Dreamtime at the ‘G clash.
Snakes
The snakes represent me and other Aboriginal people who have been through the system, and how we've gone through that system because it's very windey and how we made it out the other end.
Getting through that system, there were a lot of loopholes, because I grew up in institutions.
There were twists and turns and we had to make sure to get through to the other end.
Footprints
The footprints represent the original Long Walk people. People like my Uncle Brian, my cousin Bunj-l, and Uncle Greg were original walkers with Michael Long back in the day.
Stars
The stars represent my Elders who have passed away, which is now Uncle Brian, my Dad, and one of my mentors, Uncle Terry Kildea.
Kangaroo Tracks and Waterways
Kangaroo tracks are seen throughout our communities, and the waterways represent what we need to live and survive.
Tickets for Essendon’s matchups against Richmond and Geelong are available on our ticket page here.
