SUFC Takeover of Tiwi Island Retreat

Picture this: a group of SUFC devotees landing on a red dirt airstrip, greeted by the rugged beauty of the Tiwi Islands. On Friday, 18th October, our adventure kicked off with a quick charter flight from Darwin to Bathurst Island. Stepping off the plane with carry-on bags and provisions in hand, we were whisked away by fishing boats, setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

Our arrival was met with warm smiles from Racoon, Kate, and Dwayne – barefoot and beaming. They welcomed us with drinks and lunch, instantly making us feel at home. Day one was all about beach buggies, fishing at Buggy Creek, and our first encounter with the ‘resident’ crocodile—a reminder that we were truly in nature’s embrace.

James “SoreKnee” Dorney stole the spotlight early on, snagging the first fish and quickly becoming the unofficial leader of dinner speeches and, humorously, the worst fishing shirts and a raft of nicknames. The evening unfolded with laughter around the pool, drinks by the bonfire, and a mouthwatering meal from chef Lachie. Wagyu steaks, barramundi bites, and more set the bar high for the culinary delights to come.

Day two split us into groups for estuary fishing and crabbing, while others took on the open sea aboard ‘Category 5’. The highlight? Chris Ingate reeling in the trip’s biggest catch, fueling excitement and earning bragging rights.

Despite the challenging king tides, the phrase “Hasn’t Happened Before” became our rallying cry, summing up the uniqueness of every moment. The trip was a blend of fishing, fun, and forging new friendships, underpinned by the strong bonds of the SUFC community. With SUFC sponsor Tiwi Island Retreat and owner John Zendler with supporters from Perth joining us, it was a testament to the unity and spirit that makes our club special.

As we savored the sun, sea, and camaraderie, this weekend was more than just a getaway—it was about reconnecting with nature, celebrating our shared passion, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s to the strength of Sydney University Football Club and the adventures that #Hasn’tHappenedBefore. 🐊🏉🌊

To book visit www.tiwiislandretreat.com.au and reference SUFC for our special rates.