The AFL Women’s Dreamtime game between Richmond and Essendon will again be held at Darwin the AFL has said.

The AFLW Indigenous round will be held across rounds three and four, and with the Dreamtime match being played in round three which commences Friday, August 29 at Marrara stadium. Round three also coincides with the AFL men’s pre-finals bye round. The AFLW draw has not been released yet.

AFL NT Sam Gibson said the Tigers and Bombers played a draw in Darwin last year in wet weather in late-October, and this year’s edition will come in the dry season month of August.

He said the game had struck a powerful chord in Darwin last year, with the support from the local and interstate communities highlighting the significance of this event.

“We’re proud to work alongside Essendon, Richmond, the Northern Territory government and the local community to bring this celebration of women’s football and Indigenous culture to life,” he said.

Richmond Football Club chief executive officer Shane Dunne said the club was very grateful to have the opportunity to play the game in Darwin again.

“Dreamtime is a pivotal part of our club, and it provides an opportunity for the football community to come together and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture,” he said.

“Having this game in Darwin also allows us to showcase elite-level women’s football to the Northern Territory and gives our players and the broader club a chance to connect with the local community.”