Hawthorn will continue their partnership with the country's northern region after announcing a three-year extension with the Queensland government and AFL Cairns for the club's AFLW program.
This extension comes after the Hawks conducted their AFLW pre-season camp in Cairns last year and hosted the inaugural match at Cazalys Stadium in the AFLW's Indigenous Round.
For at least the next three years the Hawks will host one home game in Cairns, with the hope of growing the game for females in Northern Queensland. This game is scheduled for Round 9, a Thursday night blockbuster when the Hawks host Melbourne in Cairns on October 24.
Hawthorn AFLW has already had an impact on the northern state with duo Emily Bates and Greta Bodey travelling to the region to welcome the newest team to AFL Cairns, the Port Douglas Crocs.
Hawthorn Chief Executive Officer Ash Klein said this partnership is very important to help grow female sports in regional areas.
“This is an incredibly valuable partnership in so many ways, from inspiring women and girls in the northern region to the game of Aussie Rules to fostering community connections to help drive wider health benefits," Klein said.
“On the back of our successful pre-season camp in Cairns, followed by our historic inaugural AFLW match, we were proud to immerse ourselves within the Cairns community, as our players and coaches enjoyed such a rewarding experience alongside locals.
“We are looking forward to growing the brown and gold Northern Nest across the next three years with even more opportunities to engage with the footy-loving Cairns region and create a healthier, happier and more connected community.”
This partnership includes not only games being played in the region but also helps to identify talent and allow for key health initiatives across the region to encourage women to get involved in sport.
Sports Minister and member for Cairns & Tourism Michael Healy said the extension of this partnership will be a huge boost for local tourism and showcase the facilities that Cazalys Stadium has to offer.
“We're delighted to officially be the Northern Nest for the Hawthorn Hawks AFLW team," Healy said.
“For the next three years, we will get to see the brown and gold play an official home match at Cazalys Stadium.
“The AFLW Indigenous Round clash on Thursday, October 24 this year will be highly anticipated in Cairns – with an incredible 380 per cent increase statewide in Queensland girls and women playing AFL.
“It's a true showpiece event, and Cazalys Stadium is quite simply the best AFL oval in regional Australia.
“This is a wonderful investment in our tourism economy and women's sport.
“For teams, support crew and the growing AFLW supporters, they will get to enjoy our great lifestyle and world-class visitor experiences.”
The Hawks AFLW side is expected to fly to Cairns in July again for another pre-season camp in the northern state.
AFL Cairns General Manager Craig Lees said he's pleased to continue this partnership after Hawthorn's impact on Northern Queensland in 2023.
"AFL Cairns is thrilled to partner with Hawthorn Football Club and the Queensland Government. Hawthorn's impact was profound in 2023, leaving a legacy in growing our great game," said Lees.
“This collaboration is already making a significant impact on our community by promoting the growth of the women's game and enhancing social inclusion in Northern Queensland.
"We are excited about the next three years and look forward to working with Hawthorn FC and the state government in providing wonderful opportunities to our Cairns community."
While the Round 9 clash is locked in at Cazalys Stadium in October, the full 2024 NAB AFLW fixture is expected to be released on Friday.