The forum was held in response to community requests for a new football competition outside Katherine, to help remote players access more games and promote a healthy living focus.

Council CEO Michael Berto says community leaders view football as an effective way to address men’s health and anti-social behaviour, which is why they’ve campaigned so strongly for a new competition.

“People are concerned, particularly with young men on community,” he said.

“They want to make things right for them, so they can give them every opportunity to live a good life into the future.

“Each community wants to start addressing their issues with the men around grog and violence, and that’s as important to them as playing footy.”

Hosted by Roper Gulf Regional Council, the forum brought together key stakeholders from AFL NT, Big Rivers Football League, Sunrise Health, the NT Government, ‘No More’ campaign and local AFL Champions.

The group raised a range of ideas to boost men’s football participation, including weekly matches, monthly carnival-style football and partnerships with teams playing in the Big Rivers Football League.

The forum also highlighted significant challenges in developing a new competition in the vast and isolated region, including governance, funding and logistical arrangements.

Mr Berto says while those seeking a new competition need to be realistic about what can be achieved, he was confident a pilot program could be launched this year if communities were serious about supporting it.

“Its pretty clear to us that a grassroots competition like this will only succeed if the communities themselves put in the time and effort needed to make it work,” he said.

“That means we need locals volunteering to coach teams, keep score, wash uniforms and all of the many other jobs that help keep a football team and competition running.

“If that doesn’t happen then this won’t succeed, because there are limited resources available to invest in this competition.

“That said, the commitment shown by those attending the forum was impressive and I think the level of interest is strong.”

The group will meet again in the coming weeks to further develop the program, with each community to also be consulted.

Council would like to thank all those who attended, and the Department of Chief Minister for funding the event.