MELBOURNE has signed Tourism NT as a Platinum Partner for the 2013 season.
As the tourism promotion and development agency of the Northern Territory government, Tourism NT’s sponsorship includes significant signage, as well logo placement on Melbourne Football Club match day apparel. This new partnership reflects the club’s commitment to the Northern Territory, having played a home game in Darwin in the past three years.
Chief executive Cameron Schwab said this announcement was the start of a long term relationship.
“The Territory loves footy, and it makes sense to partner with the League’s foundation club to create opportunities,” Schwab said.
“This is a tremendous vote of confidence for the Melbourne Football Club, and highlights our approach of building strategic relationships that involve the whole club.
“We hope, both through this partnership and our ongoing community work, coupled with games in Darwin, that we become the Territory’s AFL club.”
The Northern Territory’s Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Matt Conlan, said it was a great opportunity for both parties.
“We see this as a starting point for a long term partnership between the Melbourne Football Club and the Northern Territory,” Conlan said.
“The Club has a strong affinity with the Territory, and held their nine-day pre-season training camp in the Top End for the very first time in December last year.
“The Demons are also extremely enthusiastic and proactive, with their coach Mark Neeld contacting me personally to say how excited he was about this new partnership.”
Former Melbourne star and DeeTV presenter Russell Robertson is also an ambassador for Tourism NT.
Melbourne’s northern exposure: Demons in the Northern Territory
- In recent years Melbourne has recruited several NT players including: Matthew Whelan (2000-2009), Shannon Motlop (2005-2006), Austin Wonaeamirri (2008-11), Liam Jurrah (2009-2012) and Aaron Davey (2004-)
- In 2012 trade period, Melbourne secured NT player Dominic Barry
- Melbourne has played three games in Darwin as part of the AFL–NT government agreement all against Port Adelaide at TIO Stadium
- Prior to each game, Melbourne undertook significant community outreach activities in NT through partnership with the University of Melbourne’s Indigenous Eye Health Unit to conduct trachoma elimination football clinics in Yuendumu (2010), Katherine (2011), Alice Springs (2012)
- In 2012, Melbourne formed a partnership with US Marine Corp and provided 220-plus tickets to the game for the marines stationed at Robertson Barracks and a pre-game address
- In December 2012, Melbourne conducted its first pre-season camp in Darwin, which included a 35km hike in Kakadu National Park
- Melbourne is embarking on a significant Northern Territory strategy that would see the club play up to two matches in Darwin
