Bringing Back the Arafura Games: Competition Program Confirmed

The Territory Labor Government is bringing back the Arafura Games, boosting tourism and visitors to the Territory. Minister for the Arafura Games, Ken Vowles, today announced the finalisation of the competition program, which now includes 16 sports.

“We promised to bring back the Arafura Games and that’s exactly what we are doing,” Mr Vowles said. “Territorians love Dragon Boating and Sepak Takraw and these have now been elevated from demonstration sports to competition sports.

“Another highlight is the Athletics 4 x 100m mixed team relay. This event is a new addition to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic program and has not yet taken place in an international multi-sport event.

“The Arafura Games program also includes an integrated para sport program in Athletics, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis and Netball. The para Table Tennis competition will double as the Oceania Paralympic Championships, offering the opportunity for athletes to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.”

A highlight of the program is confirmation of an Opening Celebration event on Friday, April 26, the day before the sporting competition begins on Saturday, April 27.

Assistant Minister for Bringing Back the Arafura Games, Kate Worden, said the 16 sports included in the Arafura Games Sport Program are Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing, Dragon Boating, Football (soccer), Hockey, Muaythai, Netball, Sailing, Sepak Takraw, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Volleyball (indoor and beach) and Weightlifting.

“The sports program is available online at www.arafuragames.nt.gov.au,” Ms Worden said. “If your sport is included in the program and you want to know more about the competition format, dates and venues, this is your first stop for more information.”

Mr Vowles said the official athlete registration for the Arafura Games will open online on Friday, October 26.

“But if you want to take part in the Games in a less sporty manner, volunteer registration is open now,” he said. “The Arafura Games are all about getting the community involved and, as someone who has taken part as a volunteer in the past, I can assure you it will be a week you will never forget.”