A joint initiative between AFL Northern Territory and the Northern Territory Government will see TIO Stadium and the Maurice Rioli Grandstand transformed. The project commencing this week will see the approximate 4,500 grandstand seats replaced with a unique Larrakia design.
The new seat installation has been designed by Larrakia descendant, traditional owner, and custodian of the Larrakia, Wardaman and Karajarri people, Trent Lee. Trent’s design has been adapted by Smartform, leaders in architecture with specialist experience in the design and delivery of sports precincts and stadiums using the individual seats and colours to bring the artwork to life.
Trent explains, “This design is my representation of the connection we have with the land, sea and sky, and the importance of keeping culture alive through our art stories and living on country.”
AFL Northern Territory are proud to have commissioned both the design and architecture of the new seat installation.
Sam Gibson, Head of AFL Northern Territory shares ‘This is an exciting project that will see the grandstand transformed into a rich piece of art connected to the Larrakia people. This will be the second stadium in Australia with an Indigenous design, and the first predominantly AFL ground. We thank Trent for working with us to create a design and for Smartform for bringing it to life. We look forward to seeing the final product”
The NT Government will commence seat replacement works will officially on 24 October 2022 at the Southern/ Bonson end of the venue and is expected to be completed in mid to late January.
Whilst this project is underway, sections of the Maurice Rioli grandstand will be unavailable to patrons. The contractor will endeavour to ensure minimal impact and patrons are requested to follow and obey signage, fencing in place; and the direction of AFLNT staff when attending on TIO NTFL Match days.