ADF to take on NT Emergency services in ANZAC Shield clash
Bragging rights are on the table when the ADF take on Emergency Services in a two-match footy event this weekend.
News
Don't miss out on the headlines from News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Cops and soldiers will be swapping their work boots for footy boots when they face off in a Aussie rules showdown at TIO Stadium this weekend.
On Sunday, ADF and NT emergency services will do battle for the Anzac Shield which serves as a fundraiser for veteran charity Legacy.
The event has developed into an event contest, with both sides having shared the spoils last year.
In 2024, the ADF won the men’s match by a convincing margin, while the NT emergency services snatched a tight win in the women’s game.
Recruit Constable Emily Franklin said she expected another tough battle.
“We both have competitive sides - we want the women to retain the shield and the men want to win back the shield,” she said.
“However, it will be good just to have a bit of fun, you know, bring both the ADF and (emergency services) together.”
Fellow police member Samuel Wright also predicted a bit of feeling in the matches.
“We talked about it being for charity, but I think once the first ball gets thrown up, it’ll be pretty serious,” he smiled.
“Last year the (ADF) blokes got into us a bit.”
While bragging rights are on the table, the real reason behind the fixture was not lost on those who will pull on the jersey.
“These games are all about raising money for Legacy,” Ms Franklin said.
Mr Wright said he agreed.
“I think we’re going to have a great time,” Mr Wright said.
“And hopefully we raise a bit of money for Legacy.”
Major Krystelle Jones of the ADF said told this publication she was keen to lace up for the “great cause”.
“It’s normally played around Anzac weekend, and it’s just about coming together, kicking the footy around with our brothers and sisters, and making a gold coin donation to Legacy,” she said.
“It’s just about going out there, getting through the game, hopefully no injuries to the old timers and, once again, it’s just all about Legacy.”
Sapper Adrian Rose did not hesitate to answer when he was asked his thoughts ahead of the match.
“It should be a good game,” he said.
“It’s always fun kicking the ball around and getting a few hits on.”
The Anzac Shield will take place at TIO Stadium on Sunday, April 27, with the women’s game starting at 4pm and the men’s following at 6pm.
A gold coin donation is required entry, with all proceeds going to Legacy.
More Coverage
Originally published as ADF to take on NT Emergency services in ANZAC Shield clash
‘My life has been shattered’: Grief pours in after shop owner’s death
The wife of a beloved Darwin grocery store owner, who was stabbed while at work in a daylight attack, has paid an emotional tribute to her ‘beautiful husband’.
Two dead in horror crash on the Stuart Hwy
Two people have died after a serious two car crash on the Stuart Highway near Lake Bennett overnight.