The near 4000km trek from Nhulunbuy in North East Arnhem Land to Geelong is long and arduous.

But for Evelyn Dhamarrandji, it is one that will help her fulfil a dream.

The Yolngu woman and her sisters Justina and Mekala arrived in Geelong three months ago after a best on ground performance in a football tournament provided her with an incredible opportunity.

“I had a game against another community back in Nhulunbuy and Hoody (Cats VFLW/AFLW coach Paul Hood) and Hayley (VFLW player Hayley Trevean) were there and I got best on ground and Hayley and Hoody gave me a trophy.” Dhamarrandji said.

“A few weeks later, Hoody emailed to one of our football coaches and they let me know I’m coming down here to play for Geelong VFLW.”

Thanks to the incredible work of the Marrma’Rom Foundation’s Cam Begg and Melissa Patterson, Evelyn and her sisters were provided accommodation at the couple’s Geelong house, as well as a chance to attend Belmont High School to improve their literacy and numeracy, as well as practical subjects like outdoor education and food technology.  

And the feedback on the girls is they are thriving, with not even the coldest day dampening their positive and bubbly attitude.

It’s not the first time that football has provided opportunities for Evelyn either.

“When I was 13, I went down to Adelaide for U18 football and down to Melbourne to represent the NT.” she said.

“I was excited to come down here.”

Evelyn and Justina are members of the Cats Next Generation Academy, allowing juniors from the Cats zone in East Arnhem Land as well as local multicultural kids a pathway to the big time.

After three games for local women’s side St Joseph’s, Evelyn finally got the opportunity to pull on the hoops for the Cats VFLW side on the weekend.

The diminutive 18-year-old had an instant impact booting two goals in an impressive display despite some pre-game nerves.

And whilst the uniform in Geelong is vastly different to back home, Evelyn couldn’t be happier to be a Cat.

“It’s a bit different, and the weather too!” she said.

“Back at home we play football in barefoot, and we don’t wear much else.”

And whilst her football hero is Hawk Cyril Rioli, there is every chance a generation of young girls could be re-creating Evelyn’s feats in years to come as she looks ahead to what football will hold for her.

“My dream is to play in the AFL.”