AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ROUND AT THE FIRE PIT

The Fire circled Sunday’s Bendigo battle when the WNBL draw was first unveiled as the occasion to celebrate the club’s annual Australian Defence Force Appreciation Round. General Manager Sam Pascoe is beyond proud it has become such a significant event on the Townville community’s Calendar.

“We’re really honoured to be the only organisation sponsored by the Australian Army but more than that, we’re really proud to represent a garrison city.”

Townsville centre Zitina Aokuso has a new army inspired kit to add to her collection and the classic camouflage concept has shot straight to the top of the list.

“This is definitely my favourite one, I think they’ve done a really good job and we’re very privileged to be the only sporting team to wear the rising sun, so I’m really proud.”

Z is looking forward to seeing the Army and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services go head to head, jokingly suggesting the curtain raiser to the main game gets more attention from Fire coach Shannon Seebohm.

“Since it started in 2019 I’ve been a big fan of watching them get after it. Yeah I’m sure Shannon will be out there early scouting and possibly picking someone up for next season.”

Rural Fire Service Inspector Helaine Gordon has accepted her opportunity to impress is two decades too late.

“I used to be a part of the Fire Academy, and I also had a QAS scholarship as well… but that was twenty years ago, so very out of touch. Do not have high expectations!”

Information Assistant Engineer Michael Barnes is expecting more military precision from his side.

“Just looking forward to competing with them again, we’re undefeated so we’ll try and keep that going.”

Sunday’s showdown marks a five year milestone since the first battle between the organisations. The concept came following devastating flooding in Townsville, which required them to work tirelessly together. Station Officer Hal Tucker believes the relationship remains as strong as ever.

“They were instrumental in the floods to help us and they continue to help us in disaster relief throughout North Queensland so building those bonds and having a bit of friendly rivalry is always a good thing.”

The game tips off at around 1.30pm followed by the Fire’s clash with the Spirit at 3pm.

Tickets are available and can be purchased here.