RSM 41 RNSWR, Lismore, WO1 Greg Chamberlain, in action for the men's over-50s side at the National Touch League titles in Coffs Harbour. Photo by Maj Michelle Breen

Anzac Day tribute match at SCG

By Stephen Brassel

THE AFL and Sydney Swans will stage a tribute to the Defence Force and Emergency Service personnel when they hold the first-ever Anzac Day clash in Sydney.

The Sydney Swans will take on the Melbourne Demons on April 25 in a twilight match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The ADF has been invited to play the curtain-raiser game against a combined team from the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigades.

The organisations were invited to compete for the ‘AFL Services Challenge Cup’ as a simple way of recognising their service to country and the community.

AFL CEO Wayne Jackson said he hopes this will become an annual tradition in Sydney.

“Anzac Day holds a special place in the hearts of most Australians and we are pleased to be working with the ADF to present this game,” he said.

Brig Brian Dawson said the match was a great opportunity for Defence Australian Rules Players.

“This is an appropriate venue to acknowledge the contributions of the Australian Defence Forces on Anzac Day,” he said.

The ADF team selected recently at the national carnival in Canberra will play their first game for the year against the combined Emergency Services team.

The combined Emergency Services team will be supported by the UTS Football Club, with the full squad training together in Sydney throughout April.

There is a special ticket offer for Defence and Emergency Services personnel and their families of $11.50 per adult and $23 per family (2 adults and 2 children), including booking fees.

This represents a discount of up to 50 per cent on standard prices.

To take advantage of this special offer call Ticketek on (02) 9266 4800 or visit your nearest Ticketek outlet.

To receive these special offers you must quote either ‘Australian Defence Force Offer’ or ‘Combined Services Offer’ when making your booking.

By doing this you will be assured of reserved seating in your designated ADF or Combined Emergency Services Bay at the SCG.

In recognition of Anzac Day, the Last Post and National Anthem will be played prior to the start of the game.