Meet Rum’un, the new mascot for Tasmania's AFL team, a cheeky Tasmanian devil with a unique twist. This playful character, who emits a growl reminiscent of Nosferatu, is covered in fur crafted from recycled school uniforms and backpacks.
Rum’un, a name that signifies a quirky or mischievous person in Tasmanian slang, made his grand entrance at Hobart’s Theatre Royal. The mascot, designed to resemble a papier-mâché creation, delighted the audience with a dramatic roar and a lively dance, accompanied by drums. Host Jack Riewoldt predicted that Rum’un's antics would become a hit.
Developed in collaboration with the Terrapin Puppet Theatre and inspired by input from local schoolchildren, Rum’un’s fur was created from donated school attire. The project began with a visit to a wildlife sanctuary to learn about Tasmanian devils, followed by school visits to gather materials. Students participated in transforming these items into the mascot’s fur.
Rum’un also features a playful element where he "poos" out footballs, a feature suggested by students to include feathers or fur from rival teams. This creative process aimed to make the mascot fierce and dynamic, steering clear of conventional designs.
The mascot has sparked varied reactions online, with some finding it amusing and others describing it as "nightmare fuel." Despite the mixed reviews, Rum’un is set to tour Tasmania, engaging with communities and representing the club ahead of its AFL debut in 2028.
Brendon Gale, CEO of the Tasmania Football Club, expressed pride in Rum’un, highlighting the mascot's embodiment of the club's values—uniquely Tasmanian, crafted with determination, and a touch of cheekiness. The club, which has already garnered 207,000 founding members, continues to grow its support with a refreshed membership offer.