Two Australian Army VIPs will deliver the ANZAC Cup onto Allianz Stadium from a Black Hawk helicopter in the traditional pre-match ceremony for Wednesday’s ANZAC Day blockbuster between the St George Illawarra Dragons and Sydney Roosters.
Warrant Office Class One Gary Mychael, OAM, CSM and Warrant Office Class One Donald Spinks, OAM, who will fly into the stadium in the Australian Army’s principal battlefield mobility helicopter, will join representatives of the Army Band and Australian Army Cadets for a pre-match ceremony briefing this afternoon (1.30-2.30pm).
A full rehearsal, with the exception of the Black Hawk helicopter, will take place on game day on Wednesday (12-1pm) with the Army Band practicing the Last Post and the Rouse; and the Australian Army Cadets rehearsing their marching drill and flag movements; while the Australian Army Land Rovers will complete a lap of the stadium.
WO1 Spinks and WO1 Mychael, who have both been awarded the Medal for the Order of Australia, will officially kick-off the ANZAC Day pre-match ceremony from 3.30pm (full profiles attached).
The NRL’s traditional ANZAC Day game at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium has become a gathering point for veterans and current serving personnel, who, after the Dawn Service and March, join thousands of rugby league fans to again honour those who served their nation.
More than 26,000 tickets have already been sold for the Dragons-Roosters April 25 clash at 4pm, which will be the first NRL game played in 10 days. Three hours later the Storm and Warriors will play their ANZAC Day encounter at Melbourne’s AAMI Park (from 7pm).
Tickets for the games can be purchased through Ticketek outlets, at www.ticketek.com.au or by calling 132 849.
Important Messages for Allianz Stadium Patrons
Given the Anzac Day activities throughout Sydney and the metro areas, pre-plan your journey to Allianz Stadium and allow adequate time to arrive ahead of kick-off
Use public transport. Regular buses to and from Allianz Stadium will operate from Central.
Arrive early to take your seat and pay tribute to those who have served and fallen when the special pre-match commemoration takes place before kick-off.