Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti wasn’t the only Tiwi Islands product developing his football knowledge at Essendon headquarters this week.

Coaches Kevin Baxter and Mary Dunn immersed themselves in the build-up to one of the Bombers biggest games of the year, spending time in the Dons inner sanctum.

The coaching exchange program is part of the Bombers close ties with the Tiwi Islands.

 “It’s awesome to have the partnership now that’s been ongoing for a long time and I think it’s something that I think will grow further in the future,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.

“They have spent the week with different coaches, looking at our backline guys, our forwards, midfielders and development program.

“We have tried to show them a lot. We showed them how we operate and how everything works. It’s been great.”

Baxter was an accomplished footballer with Waratahs in the NTFL.  He’s now Assistant Coach of the Tiwi Bombers.

“I’ve learnt heaps. I appreciate all the time with the coaches and players,” Baxter said.

“How they prepare themselves, training wise and how they are divided into groups and training in those areas where they struggle.

“Across the board they are very professional.”

Dunn is a keen promoter of women’s football, an accredited Coach and Board member of the Tiwi Bombers.

“It’s been a really good experience for myself and Kevin. (We are) so grateful for the Essendon Football Club to put us up for a week,” Dunn said.

Baxter said he enjoyed being able to spend some time with McDonald-Tipungwuti ahead of the Dreamtime at the ‘G clash. 

“We are very proud of Walla for what he has done. Everybody is so proud of what he is doing now,” he said.

“He’s up there with the best, he’s playing some good football this year.

“It’s great to be able to be here, to see him and be able to give him a hug.”