Art and Ancestry: The Unique Stories of the 2024 AFL Indigenous Guernseys

In 2024, the AFL's Indigenous and Dreamtime guernseys continue to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians and their profound impact on the game. Each team has partnered with Indigenous artists to craft designs that tell unique stories, reflecting the heritage and traditions of local Indigenous communities. Every stitch embodies a story of strength, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the land and its resources. Let's explore the stories behind each club's 2024 Indigenous guernseys.

GWS Giants The GWS Giants' 2024 Indigenous guernsey, titled Maaluga Ngarriylanha - Sitting as One, is designed by Gomeroi artist Kayleb Waters. This design emphasises unity and the Giants' leadership in reconciliation. The guernseys features a kangaroo, symbolising national strength and patience. Circular shapes represent the earth's wisdom and connection to the land, while orange circles depict communities gathered, highlighting the Giants' community impact and commitment to collective progress.

Collingwood Magpies Collingwood's Indigenous guernsey, designed by Uncle Trevor Davis, draws inspiration from his artwork "Healing." Uncle Trevor, a Wadjuk, Ballardong, Wilman, Wongi, and Noongar man, created a painting representing the club's healing journey. The design includes rain, symbolising cleansing, and incorporates elements of Uncle Trevor's art into Collingwood's iconic black and white stripes, reflecting the club's cultural renewal.

Carlton Blues The Carlton Blues' 2024 Indigenous guernsey, designed by Wiradjuri artist Stewart James, celebrates relationships among players, past and present. It connects to the people supporting these players, showcasing their journeys and the unique, special bond they share. The artwork represents the Narrandera Murrumbidgee River people and emphasises community and cultural pride.

Hawthorn Hawks Hawthorn's 2024 Indigenous guernsey, created by former player Chance Bateman and artist Jade Dolman, represents Bateman's football journey and his connection to Ballardong country. The design honours all First Nations players who have been part of the Hawthorn Football Club, with player stats featured inside the neck yoke, symbolising the club's deep respect for its Indigenous heritage.

St Kilda Saints St Kilda's guernsey, designed by Wagiman artist Nathan Patterson, reflects the story of the Saints' homeland and contributions to their journey. The design incorporates natural elements of Euro-Yroke (St Kilda), from the water and waves of Nairm (Port Phillip Bay) to the inland vegetation. The back features Melbourne's hills and a gathering symbol, with names of the 33 Indigenous players who have represented the Saints, celebrating their legacy and strength.

North Melbourne Kangaroos North Melbourne's Kangaroo Way design, inspired by players Jy Simpkin and Robert Hansen Jr, embodies unity and the club's presence on Wurundjeri Country. The guernsey features royal blue and white stripes with kangaroo tracks, representing the club's journey. It includes a football field and Bunjil to honor the Wurundjeri people, and waterholes symbolising the waters around Arden Street Oval.

Brisbane Lions The Brisbane Lions' 2024 guernsey, created by Lardil artist Renee Wilson, is themed Merri Dilangka, meaning listening to the past, present, and moving forward together. This design pays tribute to the Lardil people and emphasises the importance of acknowledging history and striving for a united future.

Port Adelaide Power Port Adelaide's guernseys, designed by Byron Pickett and his cousin Melanie Pickett, celebrates family and connection to the land and the Port Adelaide region. The guernsey features three round symbols representing significant meeting places, with the Port River forming the traditional Yartapuulti 'V' shape. Totem animal prints and elements from Byron's father's artwork honour family heritage and the club's seven current First Nations players.

Geelong Cats The Geelong Cats' 2024 Indigenous guernseys, designed by Sherry Johnstone, embodies respect, connection, and sustainability. Johnstone's artwork reflects personal thoughts and the importance of caring for the environment. The design encourages conversations about environmental impact and the need to protect and restore natural resources for future generations.

Richmond Tigers Richmond's Dreamtime guernsey, designed by Maurice Riolli Jr., showcases his Tiwi Island heritage. The guernseys features turtle and crocodile totems representing his parents and a line symbolising the path his father, Maurice Riolli Sr., paved for him. Spears on the back and side patterns represent the people who have influenced Riolli Jr.'s journey, emphasising the importance of family and community.

These guernseys are not just sportswear; they are powerful storytelling mediums that celebrate the diverse cultures and histories of Indigenous Australians. They promote greater awareness and appreciation of Indigenous heritage within the AFL community and beyond. Show your team’s colours with pride, and pay respect to the traditional owners of the land by heading into Jersey’s Megastore to get your guernsey now!