The mighty Wallabies will be making a stop in the Top End from August 10 to 14 in a bid to boost their chances of success at the Rugby World Cup in France in September.
The Wallabies will hold a community rugby clinic on Friday 11 August, with all welcome to attend from 3.30pm at Skyring Rugby Park, Marrara to take part in drills, tag games and more with the team.
Fans are also welcome to watch them train on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The players will then journey to East Arnhem Land for the chance to prepare and connect as a team in one of Australia’s most spiritual and inspiring locations.
Wallabies coach Eddie Jones went on a similar pre-World Cup training camp to East Arnhem Land with the Wallabies 20 years ago and saw the difference the experience made to the team.
From the physical element of training in the heat for added stamina, to the spiritual connection made engaging with the local Yolngu people, their culture and their history, the experience was extremely powerful for the team, who went on to reach the World Cup final.
Jones is hoping the opportunity can produce a similar result for the 2023 squad, who will be able to recharge and connect at a deeper level.
While in East Arnhem Land, the players will also take part in community engagement initiatives, including coaching clinics and skills sessions with schools and youth groups.
The Wallabies visit is supported by the Northern Territory Government through Northern Territory Major Events Company and Territory Families, Housing and Communities, and by Rugby NT.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby:
“The Rugby World Cup is the third biggest global sporting event, and knowing the Northern Territory will play a part in the preparations of the mighty Wallabies to take on the world is fantastic.
“The Territory is a special place for its unique experiences, culture and landscapes, all of which leave a lasting impression on people.
“The experience left a mark on those who were involved 20 years ago and now a whole new Wallabies team will get to experience the same.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Kate Worden:
“Top Enders will have the chance to meet the Wallabies and give them a send-off before they head to the World Cup.
“Sport delivers so much for a community, from grassroots clubs right up to the elite teams taking on the best.”
Quotes attributable to Wallabies head coach, Eddie Jones:
“The Northern Territory is the perfect location for our team to prepare for the Rugby World Cup.
“Our time in the Top End will allow us to learn about the history of our country while shaping the future for Australian Rugby by working hard and building connections on and off the field.
“We’re looking forward to working hard in what’s a mini preseason for us in a perfect setting, while spending quality time with the local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Rugby Union CEO, Nathan McDonald:
“Northern Territory Rugby Union is proud to once again welcome the Wallabies to Darwin ahead of a Rugby World Cup campaign.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our NT juniors and rugby community to see their heroes up close in their own backyard.
“Eddie Jones’ squad will be well looked after at our premier rugby union facility, Skyring Rugby Park, and we’re excited to play our part in another Wallabies camp.”
Northern Territory Government
