THE
usual Air Force rugby league trials to select a national team
have been turned into a carnival this year.
RAAF Base Amberley is hosting the 2004 Air Force National Rugby
League Carnival from October 6-11. Four teams are participating,
from RAAF Bases Richmond, Williamtown, Amberley and a combined
“Northern side” from RAAF Bases Tindal and Townsville.
Like many ADF sport teams, it’s been difficult to get everyone
together to practice. An attempt to upgrade the event from a series
of trials last year was unsuccessful because RAAF Base Richmond
was unable to field a team.
This year heralds a carnival format. Despite sometimes struggling
to get enough players, Air Force rugby league player Flight Sergeant
Aaron Smith said the sport was getting some good support and the
player base was expanding.
“CAF is very supporting of commanders letting people play, while
our patron, Air Vice Marshal Geoffrey Shepherd, has been a great
help to us,” he said.
