Norths Devils and Redcliffe Dolphins are fierce rivals on the rugby league field, but this weekend they will stand united to honour the service and sacrifice of defence personnel.
In a powerful tribute ahead of Saturday’s ANZAC Day match, both the Devils and Dolphins have partnered with RSL Queensland to acknowledge and commemorate their respective club and community connections to the ANZACs.
RSL Queensland has assisted both clubs with the design and unveiling of ANZAC jerseys to be worn during the Hostplus Cup match at Premiers’ Park – the home of the Devils.
Backing the Devils is Nundah‑Northgate RSL Sub Branch president Phill Hickey (pictured left), who served his nation for almost 30 years.
Hickey said sport played a significant role in modern day commemorations.
“I think it’s great to see the inclusion of sport on ANZAC Day,” Hickey said.
“Sport is a huge part of soldiering, sailoring and airmen and airwomen’s lives, so to come together through rugby league on a day like this is a great way to finish ANZAC Day.”
A proud Australian with a lifelong love of sport – including rugby union, swimming and water polo – Hickey said ceremonies held before sporting events across the country would once again be deeply moving.
“It’s always spine‑tingling and sends shivers up your back,” he said.
The sentiment is shared by Australian Army veteran and Sandgate RSL Sub Branch committee member Matthew Mancini, who has been inspiring the Dolphins this week.
“It’s always good to take the time to reflect on how lucky we are as a country,” Mancini said.
“As a veteran, it’s special to be able to sit back and enjoy something Australia is known for – sport.
“To see the players run out in ANZAC jerseys brings a real sense of pride. There’s always something in the air that makes your eyes well up.
“The Last Post always hits home. From the very first bar, it doesn’t matter who you are – the ground falls silent. It’s an amazing feeling.”
Mancini (pictured right) was full of praise for the design of both commemorative jerseys, which were proudly worn by Redcliffe second‑rower Sam Elliott and Norths lock Brody Tamarua during this week’s photo shoot.
Elliott will return to Premiers’ Park for the first time since switching from Norths to Redcliffe and has been in impressive form for his new club.
“I’m pretty much a creature of habit. I work hard at what I do,” Elliott said.
“Things are going my way a little bit at the moment, and the structure of the way we play really suits my game.”
Despite a series of narrow losses, Tamarua said he was loving his time under Devils coach Rohan Smith and would relish the opportunity to take part in an ANZAC Day fixture.
Photo: RSL Queensland
More about the Norths Devils ANZAC Day jersey
The Devils’ 2026 ANZAC Day jersey is a powerful tribute to those who have served. This year’s jersey carries added significance through the club’s meaningful connection with game-day partner, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, reflecting on a shared commitment to care and connection.
The jersey, produced by EV2 and designed in collaboration between the club, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, and RSL Queensland, depicts the story of Simpson and his donkey. A symbol of courage, care and sacrifice displayed by all of Australia’s and New Zealand’s service personnel from the Boer War, through to the present day.
More about the Redcliffe Dolphins ANZAC Day jersey
Redcliffe’s design honours both remembrance and legacy while still staying true to the club’s identity and connection to the community. The club set out to ensure the jersey was designed around Redcliffe’s ANZAC Place, which was built to commemorate those who died in service or were killed in action in World War One and World War Two.
To capture this goal, an image of ANZAC Place sits at the heart of the 2026 jersey, illustrating that powerful connection to the club and Redcliffe community in a unique way. Adorning the jersey are two symbolic and familiar representations of remembrance, to reflect this year’s ANZAC Day theme, “The ANZAC Spirit Lives Here.” These are the poppy – positioned at the base to show growth and legacy – and a sprig of rosemary, which sits near the heart as per tradition.
