In 2011, he moved to Victoria at the age of 17—not being able to read or write, and speaking only a "bit of English"—to better his chances of an AFL career.

[4] He was adopted by Jane McDonald in Gippsland and took on her name as recognition of her contribution to his journey, joining the family as the youngest brother.

[5] Following the many suspensions handed out to Essendon players at the end of 2015 for the supplements controversy fallout, McDonald-Tipungwuti was elevated to the Bombers' senior list.

[6] He made his AFL debut in Round 1 of the 2016 season against the Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium, and he retained his position in the team until his retirement.

[8] McDonald-Tipungwuti has finished in the top 10 for the Crichton Medal, Essendon's best-and-fairest award, each season of his career—5th in 2018; 7th in 2016, 2017, and 2020; 8th in 2019; and 10th in 2021 despite not playing in the club's final three games.