FOR all the hype and all the attention it receives, football remains just a game.
But after the emotion and commemoration of today, Australia’s game will play its part in ensuring the deeds of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice at war are not forgotten.
Tyntynder and Balranald will meet at Alan Garden Memorial Reserve, with the winner taking home the Central Murray Football Netball League’s very own Anzac Cup.
One player will also be awarded an Anzac Medal for best on ground.
It is the third time local football has commemorated the sacrifices of Australia’s service men and women, and for Swan Hill RSL sub-branch president Barry Townley it is more than appropriate.
“I think it helps commemorate the service of the Anzacs through history and it’s good for a couple of local clubs to be involved,” he said.
The Bulldogs and the Roos can expect to play in front of plenty of ex-service personnel, with veterans of World War Two in attendance and planning to present the cup and medal to the day’s victors.
As well, a contingent of local Vietnam vets will be on-hand for the pre-game ceremony.
Normally a figure recognisable by his goal umpires’ flags, Townley will give his regular football duties a miss.
“I won’t be umpiring, but I’ll help pick the medal winner and oversee the occasion,” he said.
Townley said the concept of football being used to commemorate Anzac Day was starting to be embraced around the region.
“It took a while for the local district to embrace it but after the first couple of years more people are starting to come on board,” he said.
Tyntynder coach Luke Kelly said he was keen for his club to be involved in any Anzac Day commemorations.
“Being an Essendon supporter I’ve always taken a lot of interest in what happens with them on Anzac Day,” he said.
Fore more on Anzac football in Swan Hill, see Friday’s edition of The Guardian.
