A Royal Australian Air Force rugby league event has smashed fundraising records, delivering more than $100,000 for a local cancer charity.

RAAF Base Tindal hosted the 18th Annual Northern Territory Cancer Council Rugby League Carnival during Exercise Pitch Black 2026, the biennial capstone International air combat exercise.

Against the backdrop of a Territory sunset, more than 1000 spectators and aviators from 17 Squadron and 75 Squadron contributed to the fundraising total, which surpassed last year's by more than $30,000.

The annual carnival has become a much-loved fixture on the Tindal and Katherine calendar, bringing together Defence personnel, local families, businesses and sporting enthusiasts for a day of friendly rivalry, community spirit and fundraising for a cause that touches so many lives.

The day began with former National Rugby League players leading a "come and try" rugby league session for local juniors and newcomers to the game.

Young players then took centre stage as under-six, under-eight and under-10 teams showcased their skills and enthusiasm in front of a supportive crowd.

'I’m immensely proud of our aviators and families, and thankful to the many businesses and individuals who generously contributed equipment, food and financial support to make the event possible.'

Commanding Officer 17 Squadron Wing Commander Alex Smith said raising more than $100,000 for Cancer Council NT was a remarkable result and reflected the incredible spirit of the Tindal and Katherine communities.

“I’m immensely proud of our aviators and families, and thankful to the many businesses and individuals who generously contributed equipment, food and financial support to make the event possible,” Wing Commander Smith said.

Adding to the excitement, the commanding officers made a memorable entrance, arriving in the base search-and-rescue helicopter with the match ball and shields.

A new addition to this year's carnival, the over-35s Oztag match, proved that competitive spirit never gets old.

The entertaining contest, which finished in a 3-3 draw, was filled with plenty of laughs, surprising agility and a determination that belied the players' years.

The action then shifted skyward as an F-35A Lightning II roared overhead, treating spectators to a thrilling aerial display. Cheers echoed around the oval as the aircraft performed a series of manoeuvres before finishing with a dramatic vertical climb high above the crowd.

On the field, the rivalry between 17 Squadron's Kites and 75 Squadron's Magpies delivered plenty of excitement.

The Magpies secured the Paul Sletten Shield in the women's touch football match with a 5-3 victory, before everyone’s attention turned to the eagerly anticipated men's rugby league clash for the Jason Ruhan Shield.

With scores locked late in the game, a draw appeared inevitable. However, one final twist remained. 

After the siren sounded, the Magpies were awarded a penalty within kicking range. With the pressure of the carnival resting on his shoulders, Flying Officer Edward Bartlett-Bragg calmly slotted the winning kick to seal the title for 75 Squadron and spark celebrations among teammates and supporters.

Wing Commander Matthew Deveson, Commanding Officer Number 75 Squadron, said it was a solid effort by all teams, as well as everyone who supported the event on the day and contributed during the planning stages.

“I can't wait for next year as this initiative continues to grow, gain momentum and make an even greater impact. Congratulations to everyone involved on an outstanding result,” he said.