Volunteers and technical officials will stand out from the crowd at this year’s Arafura Games with their striking new uniform unveiled today.

The uniform, designed by Darwin graphic designer Sam Bondareff, features topographical lines that represent the journey athletes from more than 40 nations will take to attend the event.

Almost 600 volunteers have signed up to take part in the Arafura Games this year, and they will form an easily recognisable sea of purple throughout Games events and venues.

Around 800 volunteers are needed in total, and organisers are on track to reach that number with the involvement of several community groups as volunteers.

Members of community groups including the Junior Police Rangers and Nightcliff Middle School Clontarf Academy will volunteer at the Games, alongside students from Marrara Christian College and Henbury School. SEDA and Total Recreation have also signed up, so students studying sports development and Territorians with disabilities will also contribute to the delivery of the games.

Registrations for volunteers close on March 31. To register visit https://arafuragames.nt.gov.au/

Quotes from Minister for the Arafura Games, Natasha Fyles:

“The Territory Labor Government is bringing back the Arafura Games to create opportunities and jobs for Territorians.

“The number of people who have signed up as volunteers shows Territorians still love the Arafura Games, and without their help we would not be able to hold such an event.

“They will benefit from volunteer training and the incredible experience of being involved in an international sporting event. The rest of us will benefit from their enthusiasm and dedication.”

Quotes from uniform designer Sam Bondareff, Creative Director, Mojo Collective:

“The swirling pattern on the uniforms represents the currents of the sea and the little dots symbolise all the little steps taken by athletes in their endeavours and achievements in life, on and off the sporting field.”

Quotes from volunteer, Kate Knuckey:

“Darwin is very much about buying local and local participation, especially in terms of work and sport. This is good community spirit to me. It’s great to be involved in the Arafura Games. It’s a terrific networking opportunity and I’m excited about taking part. I’d definitely encourage people to register as a volunteer. It’ll be a really worthwhile experience and lots of fun.”

Media Contact: Leanne Hudson 0427 687 079