The Gold Coast SUNS are pleased to announce the club has extended its partnership with the Northern Territory for a further three years.
In collaboration with Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC), the Northern Territory Government and the AFL, the SUNS have agreed to play two matches in the NT each year over the next three seasons.
The announcement comes as the AFL has announced the two GC SUNS fixtures at TIO Stadium in 2024, with the club to host North Melbourne and Geelong in Rounds 9 and 10.
The matches are scheduled for Saturday and Thursday night respectively, with the SUNS to kick off the AFL’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round in Round 10 with the primetime Thursday night slot.
Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said the club has loved the opportunity to play games in Darwin in recent years.
“We are thrilled to once again have the opportunity to host back-to-back home games at TIO Stadium in Darwin for the next three years,” Evans said.
“The NT has become our second home and we have taken pride in our ability to make Darwin a fortress where we play some of our best football.
“Territorians will have the chance to witness some of their homegrown heroes live in action at TIO Stadium.
“Whether it’s a dazzling Malcolm Rosas Jnr goal, Joel Jeffrey’s freakish athleticism, Ben Long’s signature toughness or Lloyd Johnston’s blistering speed, there will be plenty for the home crowd to cheer.”
Northern Territory Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the Territory was the place to be when the SUNS are in town.
“The Territory Labor Government is making the Territory the best place for footy, festivals and fun. These footy games not only bring elite sportspeople to the Territory, they support our local businesses, from accommodation to restaurants,” Minister Fyles said.
“Combined with the Territory’s unique tourism experiences, that’s the holiday of a lifetime. Hosting the Darwin Territory AFL games earlier than usual also has economic benefits, supporting the shoulder season and a strong start to the Top End’s major events season.
“Some of Australia’s finest AFL players have come from the Territory. Continuing our partnership with the AFL provides an avenue for Territorians to see elite sport in action without having to travel interstate, while also inspiring our next generation of footy stars.
“Many die-hard fans will travel interstate to watch their team play. There are more reasons than ever for SUNS fans to head to Darwin, with BASSINTHEGRASS taking place just after their second game here.”
The best way to guarantee access to a SUNS game at TIO Stadium is to purchase a Territory SUNS membership via goldcoastfc.com.au/membership from just $55.
AFL ROUND 9
Gold Coast SUNS v North Melbourne
Saturday May 11*
TIO Stadium, Darwin
AFL ROUND 10
Gold Coast SUNS v Geelong
Thursday May 16*
TIO Stadium, Darwin
*Match timings to be announced by the AFL in line with the full 2024 fixture.
