Essendon has issued a recall on its 2024 Dreamtime jumper after an error involving a map of the Tiwi Islands was identified.
The annual Dreamtime at the ‘G clash is a fortnight away, but the Bombers revealed on Friday night that the printed jumper – which was unveiled in March this year – is incorrect to the original design.
CEO Craig Vozzo acknowledged the mistake, in which the Tiwi Islands are inverted, in a press release on Friday night and said the recall decision was made after speaking with Russellina Puruntatameri, who designed the guernsey.
The club has recalled the retail version of its 2024 Dreamtime Guernsey.
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) May 10, 2024
“We are proud of our Dreamtime jumper and the story it tells about the rich culture of the Tiwi Islands and its peoples. The cultural integrity of our guernsey is of utmost importance. The design’s meaning is deep and powerful and our guernsey should exactly reflect the artwork,” Vozzo said.
“Russellina has crafted a powerful piece of art but once the error was identified and after consulting with her, we didn’t feel it was appropriate to move forward with a retail version that wasn’t completely accurate to her original design.
“Importantly, the AFL players representing Essendon during Sir Doug Nicholls Round will be wearing the correct artist-designed Dreamtime guernsey.”
The Bombers will still don the special kit twice, firstly in Sir Doug Nicholls Round against North Melbourne next week.
2024 marks the 20th year of the Dreamtime game, with part of the jumper designed to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Michael Long's historic walk to Canberra.