Essendon possesses a deep connection with one of the most remote communities in Australia.
Located 80km north of Darwin across the Arafura Sea, the footy-mad Tiwi Islands have produced some of the AFL's most talented players past and present, including Essendon greats Michael Long and Dean Rioli, former star forward Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and recent Premiership players Daniel Rioli, Willie Rioli and Cyril Rioli.
More than a third of Tiwi's 2,600 population plays footy, which is said to be the country's highest participation rate.
The Bombers, who have the Tiwi Islands as one of their Next Generation Academy zones, have supported the islands for 16 years, providing pathways for AFL hopefuls, sponsoring the Tiwi Bombers and helping to improve social outcomes in the communities.
