Attracting the best to the Territory Acquisition of new events is important for several reasons: Increasing economic returns and visitation to the Territory, while showcasing the uniqueness of the Territory Delivering a year-round event portfolio that supports shoulder and off-peak seasons Enhancing the liveability of the Territory, with events that are strongly supported by, and demonstrate positive social impact on the community Providing opportunities for local businesses to leverage, participate in and benefit from new events In 2024, the Northern Territory Major Events Company secured the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme Motocross World Championship (MXGP), which is heading to Darwin in 2025. This exciting acquisition will deliver increased economic returns and visitation to the Territory during the shoulder season of September. This exclusive opportunity will display the Territory to an international audience, with a viewership of 727 million across 180 countries. It will attract both domestic and international visitors and deliver on priorities outlined in the NT’s Tourism Industry Strategy 2030. This announcement of a new major event for the Territory was enthusiastically received by Territorians and Motocross fans in May when In-Front Moto Racing (Grand Prix promoter) CEO David Luongo announced the event. The acquisition of the Harlem Globetrotters was another great example of demonstrating positive social impact on the community. Originally planned as a one-night show in Darwin, ticket sale demand was such that a second night and extra seats was quickly included. More than 4,200 basketball fans attended over the two nights. Community engagement activities included player signing sessions and skills player engagement with juniors at Palmerston Basketball and Darwin Basketball Associations. Through the Hoops for Health program, a visit to the Darwin Youth Detention Centre inspired youth to remain fit and healthy through playing sport and skills development, while the Clontarf Foundation session focussed on skills and talent pathways. This year also saw the Australian Cup Play Offs in Darwin with four football teams vying for a top eight position in the 2024 competition. The Australia Cup is the nation’s largest knockout competition of any sport, with more than 750 clubs taking part in what is the 10th Anniversary of the prestigious event in its modern form. The event saw a combined total of 2,500 fans pack Darwin Football Stadium for the two games, while on YouTube thousands of die-hard international fans watched with nearly 23,500 live-stream views. Northern Territory Major Events Company – ANNUAL REPORT 2023/24 33