Following their arrival in Tennant Creek, Northern Territory, Collingwood AFL and AFLW players, employees, and board members engaged in impactful community activities as part of the club’s annual Barkly Region camp. The initiative focuses on cultural exchange, promoting health, education, and sports among remote Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Over several days, players such as Jack Ginnivan and Josh Eyre, along with community leaders like Debby Lovett and Leon Davis, visited schools in Tennant Creek, Elliott, and Ali Curung. These visits emphasized fostering participation in Australian Rules football while encouraging school attendance and healthy lifestyles. The Collingwood team also reinforced messages of gender inclusivity by engaging with local girls in sports, highlighting their emerging talent.
The campaign extended beyond sports, supporting programs like “No More Violence,” aimed at addressing domestic violence in the region. Collingwood representatives shared knowledge through discussions with local coaches and clubs, ensuring a long-term impact on governance and community development. Their presence reaffirmed football’s role as a unifying force in these communities.
Despite weather challenges, including flooding that limited their travel to other remote areas, the team’s dedication to bridging urban-rural gaps was evident. The visit underscored the importance of sustained engagement to support the Barkly Region, ensuring Aussie Rules continues to thrive despite growing competition from other sports like soccer.
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