The Melbourne Demons are back in Alice Springs this weekend as part of the Territory Government’s $1.7 million per annum five-year partnership agreement with AFL.
The Demons take on reigning premiers West Coast Eagles in the Toyota AFL Premiership Round 18 match this Sunday 21 July at TIO Traeger Park from 2.50pm ACST.
The Eagles return to the Red Centre after more than six years, with AFL fans from across the Territory and Australia snapping up tickets fast.
Local fans will get a chance to meet the Demons players as they host a series of clinics and community visits later this week.
Entry is free for children 14 years and under but will you need an allocated ticket for entry, so secure your ticket now at www.ntix.com.au.
Get along early for the Redtails vs Top End Storm curtain-raiser, the second year in a row that local Territory footballers will play the lead-in game which kicks off at 11.10am ACST.
Quotes from Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture Lauren Moss:
“Bringing sporting matches of this calibre to the Red Centre is something the Territory Labor Government prides itself on and this blockbuster game between the Melbourne Demons and the reigning Premiers, West Coast Eagles, is a huge boost for Alice Springs.
“Hosting top tier sporting fixtures in the Territory increases visitation, boosts the economy and supports local business, which is why we continue to invest in these events.
“This weekend’s game is expected to be hotly contested, so I would urge visitors and locals alike to purchase their tickets as soon as possible to avoid missing out.”
Quotes from CEO of AFLNT, Stuart Totham:
“It’s fantastic to see Melbourne back in the Northern Territory to play against the West Coast Eagles in Round 18 of the Toyota AFL Premiership Season.
“Football is huge in the Territory, and I have no doubt TIO Traeger Park in Alice Springs will be packed with people of all ages for the much-anticipated Red Centre fixture.
“It’s exciting that the Demons are partaking in a number of community activities in the lead up to the game, which not only gives local and visiting fans the chance to meet their favourite players, but also inspires the next generation of football stars to pursue their sporting goals.”
Quotes from Melbourne Football Club Co-Captain, Nathan Jones:
“We really love the opportunity to play football in the Red Centre, and hope that playing AFL matches in the Northern Territory will also encourage participation at all levels to grow the game from a broader perspective.
“This is also a great chance for kids in the nation’s heartland to see their heroes play in Alice Springs.
“We are really looking forward to this unique opportunity and can’t wait to meet fans in the local community.”
Media Contact: Lisa Sennett 0436 929 858