The Territory Labor Government is bringing back the Arafura Games as a significant tourist attraction, to promote trade and business opportunities, and create jobs.  

Today students at Wulagi Primary School met a very special character when Milula, the new mascot, dropped by to say hi with Assistant Minister for the Arafura Games, Kate Worden.

Milula (pronounced Mi-loo-la) was designed by Darwin artist James Carter. He designed the original Arafura Games mascot, Rocky, in 1991 and saw the revival of the Arafura Games as a chance to revitalise and refresh the event’s mascot.

James designed Milula with an extraordinary coat full of colourful markings that represent his love for celebration and dance, his strong connection to the Larrakia people and country, and his enthusiasm for the colourful spectacle of sport.

Described as a young wallaby who lives around Darwin’s East Point Reserve, Milula spent his childhood taking part in sporting activities, particularly at the Marrara Sporting Complex, and is very excited about the return of the Arafura Games.

Quote from Assistant Minister for the Arafura Games, Kate Worden:

“The Territory Labor Government is bringing back the Arafura Games, which will promote trade and business opportunities and create jobs for Territorians.

“There is also the opportunity for members of the community to be involved as volunteers, and I encourage anyone who would like to be part of the Arafura Games to visit arafuragames.nt.gov.au

“Mascots are an important part of any such event and, as the old mascot Rocky was retired when the former CLP government cancelled the Arafura Games in 2013, a fun new figure was needed.

“Local artist James Carter has done a fantastic job revitalising the Arafura Games mascot to reflect the revitalisation of the event itself.”

Quotes from Artist, James Carter:

“I produced Rocky at the beginning of my career, and to be able to revisit the Arafura Games through designing Milula has given me an opportunity to demonstrate how my skills have developed.

“The return of the Arafura Games was a fantastic opportunity for me, and Milula is inspired by the Traditional Owners, the Larrakia people, their artwork and ceremony.” 

Media Contact: Leanne Hudson 0427 687 079