Arafura Games

The friendship and solidarity between nations and regions that is integral to every Arafura Games provides an ideal opportunity for business relationships to be developed and fostered. The networks that are established during this unique event can provide a solid foundation on which future business partnerships can grow. The Northern Territory Department of the Chief Minister will assist to arrange meetings and ensure that your interests in pursuing business opportunities in the Northern Territory are met.

Opening Ceremony

The Arafura Games Opening Ceremony was held on the evening of Saturday, 9 May 2009 and was a spectacular start to the Arafura Games week of sporting festivities. The Opening Ceremony encompassed the traditions of the Games, celebrating the friendship between sporting neighbours and embracing the multi-cultural nature of the City of Darwin. The program include a Parade of Athletes, formal welcomes and oaths, the lighting of the Flame, an array of entertainment and a spell-binding fireworks display. A crowd of approximately 8000 attended the event.

Participants are strongly encouraged to keep hydrated during their stay in the Northern Territory. Drinking water in the Northern Territory is safe, and bottled water is available for purchase at most beverage stores. And remember, sunscreen is a must in our tropical climate to protect your skin.

Competitors and other visitors attending the Arafura Games in Darwin are encouraged to have measles and influenza vaccination prior to travel to Australia. For those visitors travelling from malaria endemic countries please advise the Arafura Medical team if you develop malaria symptoms while in Australia to enable early access for treatment.

The Arafura Games organisers will provide meal vouchers for all registered participants for the opening and closing ceremonies. All other meals will be the responsibility of the participating teams or individuals.

Arafura Games 2009 memorabilia will be available for purchase during the Games week. Items such as T-shirts, polo shirts, caps, key-rings, pins and other items will be available for purchase.

Download 2009 Official Merchandise

Arafura Central

During the week of the Arafura Games, Arafura Central, will be located on the grassed area in front of the Marrara Indoor Stadium. It's the place where Games participants come to relax, to socialise with their sporting neighbours and to celebrate their Games highlights.

Apply for your visa today! Time is running out to apply for your visa to enter Australia for the Arafura Games.

Please note that visitors of all nationalities (except Australian and New Zealand passport holders) must obtain a Visa prior to arrival.

Were you a member of the 2009 Arafura Games workforce?
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Background

The Arafura Games began in 1991 as the ‘Arafura Sports Festival’ with 1500 participants from seven countries competing in 13 sports. On the eve of the 2009 Games, the Arafura Games is now an international-standard sporting competition. Over the years, tens of thousands of athletes, spectators and officials have been involved, alongside thousands of hardworking volunteers, without whom the Games wouldn’t be possible. For the Arafura Games 2009, a team of more than 1000 dedicated volunteers will be required to help deliver the event.

Arafura Games Bus Network

Arafura Games buses will provide all teams with airport transfers on arrival and departure.  During the Games a shuttle bus service will operate free of charge between accommodation houses, training and competition venues for accredited participants.  Participants will also have free access to Darwin’s regular public transport system.  Identification tags issued by the Arafura Games office must be worn at all times in order to access the free transport services. 

For timetable and route map please click on this link:

 Transport Brochure 1.65 Mb

Darwin has a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets, tastes and special requirements. Almost all of Darwin's accommodation houses are located close to the Central Business District (CBD) and a short drive from sporting venues. These range from five-star hotels, motels and apartments to backpacker-style accommodation.