Dennis Bree and grandson Hamish play in same grade rugby match

History was made as a grandfather and grandson played in the same Top End grade rugby match. See the photos and watch the vision here.

A decade long promise between a grandfather and grandson came to fruition as the pair laced up the boots for the same grade rugby match.

Dennis Bree (73) and his grandson Hamish (17) ran out together at Palmerston Crocs home field on Saturday against South Darwin Rabbitohs in the DRU B-grade competition.

The pair and the rest of the Crocs played their hearts out in the muggy and rainy conditions but were unable to contain the visitors, losing 27-15.

Dennis Bree throwing a lineout. Picture: From The Sideline Sports Photography

Hamish making a run during his first grade rugby match with his grandfather Dennis Bree. Picture: From The Sideline Sports Photography

Despite the result Dennis and Hamish could not have been more thrilled with the days play.

It was a rough introduction to men’s rugby for the teenager who copped a high tackle in his first play as well as a nasty eye-gouge in the first half.

Apart from those two blips Hamish slotted right into the side, making a number of gutsy carries and clutch try-saving defensive efforts at fullback.

As for Dennis, the old warhorse played the entire game, and was in the thick of the action throughout.

Dennis Bree packs the scrum while Hamish is lining up at fullback in the background. Picture: Darcy Jennings

At hooker he took the lineout duties despite the wet gilbert and packed in the middle of every scrum on the day.

After it was all said and done Dennis and Hamish couldn’t stop smiling; Dennis proudly parading his lack of front chompers.

“That was just unreal,” Dennis said after the game.

“We didn’t win but I don’t really mind, I’m so happy that this day finally came and I got to play with Hamish finally.

“He was pretty good too I reckon. He got hit around a bit but he looked right at home so I think that means I’ll have to play again next season.”

Dennis Bree and his grandson Hamish with their family after the game. Picture: Darcy Jennings

Hamish, like his grandad, also couldn’t get his grin off his face.

“That was so good,” he said.

“That was a fun game in the end too.

“I got hit high my first carry and a finger to the eye but other than that it wasn’t that bad.

“And obviously getting to make my senior debut with him (Dennis) is so special and something I won’t ever forget.”

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Godfather of NT rugby union Dennis Bree and his grandson Hamish will make history as they play in a competitive game of rugby together this weekend.

Dennis, 73, and Hamish, 17, will play in the same B-grade Palmerston Crocs outfit in round 13 of the Darwin rugby competition.

Despite the 56-year age gap the pair are as thick as thieves, both excited to take to the field for the first time together.

Dennis Bree (73) and his grandson Hamish (17) will both play in the same B-grade Palmerston Crocs rugby team this weekend – February 8, 2025. Picture: Darcy Jennings

“This has been a long time coming,” Dennis said.

“He’s my only grandson in Darwin so we have a pretty close relationship, which led to the promise we made to each other years ago to play together. It’s one of the many excuses I’ve told my wife and myself to keep playing.

“I’ve been dreaming about this day since he was a little kid, so to finally have the opportunity to run out and play together means the world to me.”

Palmerston hooker Dennis Bree is a study of grim determination as he charges into the Bayside opposition at Nightcliff Oval in 1981.

In his 49th consecutive season of Top End rugby, St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace Old Boy Dennis said, unlike himself, his grandson actually has some slick skills.

Dennis also believes this milestone never would have happened if not for the support of his cherished Crocs.

“Hamish, unlike myself, is actually a pretty good little player,” he said.

“He’s got some pace down at fullback and from his kickboxing is as fit as anything, he also knows how to take a hit which is great.

“Everybody at the Crocs has been incredibly supportive and I don’t believe this would have been possible anywhere else.”

FLASHBACK – Dennis Bree with Hamish (12) back in 2021. Picture Glenn Campbell

Hamish is also stoked to finally make his childhood dream a reality having had to wait until he turned 17 (last week) to be eligible for senior fixtures.

“I’ve been waiting for this for so long,” Hamish said.

“It’s unheard of I’m pretty sure.

“I mean, who else in the country can say they’ve actually played a game of competitive full contact rugby with their grandad, I don’t reckon anyone can.

“He’s been such a great inspiration, especially for discipline and resilience.”

The duo will be the stars of the show this Saturday with friends and family from interstate in attendance as well as former teammates and more watching on at Moulden Park, Palmerston. Kick-off is at 4pm.