On the eve of Anzac Day, aviators from the Air Force Football Association took to the pitch at Ironbark Park in South Ripley for the inaugural Air Force versus Queensland Police Service football matches in both men’s and women’s divisions.

The double-header provided a meaningful way to honour Anzac Day, combining competitive sport with a strong spirit of remembrance and the core values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence.

Leading Aircraftwoman Jo Duim, captain of the women’s team, said the highlight of the day was the commemorative service between both matches.

“As the women’s match finished, we formed a guard of honour as the men walked out,” she said.

“We held a service with the Last Post and Rouse played by ex-serving member Phil Cutcliffe, the national anthems and a minute’s silence. It was a pretty special moment.

“The values within the Anzac spirit are so transferable to sport, and it just shows what it’s all about – how lucky we are to be able to play sport in a country we love, while wearing the uniform that means so much.”

Originally scheduled for Anzac Day last year but cancelled due to weather, this year’s event – driven by Flight Lieutenant James-Andre Galam – was an important step in growing football participation across Air Force bases nationwide.

The aim is to build depth for Air Force representative teams while supporting fitness, wellbeing, teamwork and community connection.

The women’s match was a fiercely competitive contest. The Air Force side twice fought back to level the scores at 2-2 before going down 4-2 to a strong Queensland Police team that included several local Ipswich players. 

'The values within the Anzac spirit are so transferable to sport, and it just shows what it’s all about.'

Pilot Officer Dani White scored both of Air Force’s goals, while Leading Aircraftwoman Keeleigh Hayward was named women’s most valuable player (MVP).

In the men’s match, the Air Force delivered a commanding performance, securing a 4-1 victory. Corporal Levi Hughes was named Men’s MVP for his standout display.

Leading Aircraftwoman Duim, a reservist with 23 Squadron’s Security Forces, is a passionate advocate for sport in Defence. She has 24 years of football experience and knows the positive impact it can have on players.

“Any opportunity to play sport, to network, to socialise – taking people into a life outside the job but still giving them the chance to be themselves – I’m all for it,” she said.

“You get to learn the different roles people do in the ADF, play the sport you love and represent something bigger than yourself.

“I’m a massive advocate for mental health and wellbeing for frontline members and ADF personnel. I just want to see people be the best versions of themselves.”

The Amberley Football group continues to grow, with regular indoor futsal sessions already running and plans to expand into more outdoor training. 

Anyone at Amberley interested in playing, regardless of experience level, is encouraged to get involved.

Fixtures on the horizon this year include the ADF Futsal National Championship at Randwick Barracks from June 21 to 24; the ADF National Championship in Sydney from October 8 to 24; and the Air Force versus Army Remembrance Day Football Match in Brisbane on November 11. 

To be added to the mailing list, email the Air Force Football Association at airforce.footballassociation@defence.gov.au