Essendon has initiated a recall of its 2024 Dreamtime jumper after discovering an error involving the depiction of the Tiwi Islands on the garment.
Despite the annual Dreamtime at the ‘G clash being a fortnight away, the Bombers announced on Friday night that the printed jumper, unveiled in March this year, deviates from the original design.
CEO Craig Vozzo acknowledged the mistake in a press release on Friday night, noting that the Tiwi Islands are depicted incorrectly on the jumper. Vozzo stated that the decision to recall the jumper was made after consulting with Russellina Puruntatameri, the designer of the guernsey.
“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.”
Despite the recall, the Bombers still plan to wear the special kit twice, with the first appearance scheduled for 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.
