The WHY - Elcho Island Dolphins

Tony Crowe • October 14, 2025

COMMUNITY | UNITED | INCLUSION | PARTICIPATION

The WHY — 12 Weeks in the Making

Elcho Island Dolphins Make Their Debut at the Tamboran Resources Top End Cup

What started as a conversation about opportunity has turned into a powerful story of community spirit, cultural pride, and the uniting power of Rugby League.

Over just 12 weeks, through commitment, collaboration, and belief, the Elcho Island Dolphins Junior Rugby League team came to life as they proudly took the field at the Tamboran Resources Top End Cup in Katherine.

Driven by local champion Callan Collins and supported by passionate school staff, volunteers, and families, the Dolphins' journey proves that anything is possible when purpose meets passion.


💛 Built by Community, Backed by Belief

The establishment of the Elcho Island Dolphins shows what happens when people work together across schools, sport, and community leadership. This program was not just about playing a game it was about creating opportunity for connection, belonging, and local pride.

It highlights the growing strength of East Arnhem Rugby League development, following the successful introduction of Gove United and with future expansion now being explored in Groote Eylandt.


A Shared Vision with Lasting Impact

This success wouldn’t have been possible without the belief and investment of key partners:

Tamboran Resources Corporation – Naming Rights Partner of the Top End Cup

Dolphins NRL – Ongoing strategic alignment and NT-based support

ISC Sport – Proud NRL NT apparel partner supporting regional team kits

Together, these organisations have helped amplify the voice of community-led sport, empowering more young Territorians to participate, connect, and grow.


Pictured above after the Dolphins first game against the Kununurra Thunder

The Journey Continues

From the sand fields of Elcho to the green fields of Katherine Sports Ground, this was more than just a team taking the field it was a movement of culture, inclusion, and belief.

NRL NT is proud to stand alongside the Elcho Island Dolphins and all our regional communities who are building futures through footy.


This is why we do what we do.

By Tony Crowe September 23, 2025
Tender Process Now Open
By Tony Crowe September 22, 2025
Start planning your footy getaway now with our top picks for where to stay!
By NRL NT Admin September 19, 2025
While You’re in Town for the Tamboran Resources Top End Cup
By Tony Crowe September 12, 2025
All teams will be recognised for demonstrating the NRL NT Our House values, with a strong emphasis on positive behaviour from players, coaches, volunteers and spectators alike.
By Tony Crowe September 11, 2025
A Celebration of Territory Rugby League
By Tony Crowe September 11, 2025
NRL NT in partnership with our Apparel Partner ISC Sport is proud to unveil the official 2025 Tamboran Resources Top End Cup merchandise – and you can be among the first to lock in your gear with pre-orders now open ! 🔥 Limited-Edition Gear, Made for the Top End Whether you're on the sidelines, out on the water, or representing your club with pride, this exclusive merch is a must-have for Top End League fans. Available to pre-order here - Products | NRL NT | TidyHQ 🧥 Fishing Shirt – $55.00 Featuring our signature lightning design and a fierce barra splash, this long sleeve ISC shirt is perfect for outdoor adventures and game day vibes. 🧢 Trucker Cap – $35.00 Designed with a mesh back and bold Top End Cup branding, this adjustable cap keeps you cool while showing your NT pride. 📍 Pick-Up Details Merchandise will be available for collection: At the Tamboran Resources Top End Cup event in Katherine , or From the NRL NT Office (Marrara) Pre-order now to secure your items – limited stock available and demand is high!
By Tony Crowe September 10, 2025
Gove United Rugby League Club are proud to announce that the game of rugby league that we know and love is finally “coming home” join us all family and friends on the 20th of September as we see our very own Gove United buffalo’s take on South Darwin Rabbitohs in a awesome event! Wear your mighty Blue and Gold colours and let’s bring the heat and show everyone that with such a small town we produce the Biggest hearts! 6:30 pm Hindle Oval 1 And don't worry we have dinner sorted with our canteen open, Live DJ and plenty of junior rugby games to curtain raise our main event and if that doesn't top it off we have a “COUNTRY WESTERN” after party at the walkabout so we can meet the team , so grab your cowboy hat , country boots denim jeans and be ready to throw down on the dancefloor, see you all there
By Tony Crowe September 10, 2025
🌟 League Stars Holiday Clinic is almost HERE! 🌟 Looking for something active, non-contact , and super fun these school holidays? 🏉🎉 Bring the kids along to our League Stars Holiday Clinic—an energetic, skills-based session designed for beginners through to footy-mad kids. It’s all about moving, laughing, learning new skills and making friends in a safe, inclusive environment. 💚 Event Details Date: Thursday, 3 October 2025 Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm (please arrive 9:40am for check-in) Ages: 5–12 years Location: TRL Stadium, Marrara Cost: $59.00 What kids will do Fun, non-contact rugby league games and skill stations Team challenges that build confidence and coordination Values-led activities focused on respect, inclusion and teamwork What to bring Comfortable sports gear and runners Water bottle, hat and sunscreen Big smiles and positive energy! Supervision & Safety All activities are led by accredited, child-safe coaches. Sessions are strictly non-contact and tailored to age and ability so everyone can participate confidently. How to Register Scan the QR code on the flyer to secure your spot—places are limited and this clinic fills quickly! Have questions? Reach out to NRL NT for more info.  See you at TRL Stadium for two hours of school-holiday fun! 🙌
By Tony Crowe September 8, 2025
2025 Chemist Warehouse Darwin Junior Rugby League Grand Final Day
By Tony Crowe September 4, 2025
The Stage is Set for an UNREAL Day
More Posts