Every regular Army formation was represented at this year's Army football championships for the first time.
Held at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, last month, soldiers from across Australia made up 16 teams with players from 1 (Australian) Division, 2nd (Australian) Division, Forces Command and Aviation Command.
At the end of the week-long competition, 7th Brigade was named the champion formation.
In the men's competition, HQ 1st (Australian) Division defeated 3rd Brigade in the final, while a combined 3rd and 16th Brigade side claimed victory over 7th Brigade in the women's tournament.
The championships also welcomed a team from the Timor-Leste Defence Fore (F-FDTL). They narrowly missed claiming the invitational trophy on goal difference, but their presence elevated the standard of play and strengthened ties between the nations.
'There is fierce competition between formations, but there was also plenty of laughter, banter and friendships rekindled.'
Director of regional football Major Ian Rainbow said there were plenty of highlights.
"The biggest was having every formation in the Regular Army involved for the first time, including 10th Brigade," Major Rainbow said.
"We also had a 2nd (Australian) Division side representing the Army Reserve, along with a Forces Command team representing the training establishments in Victoria. It really shows how strong Army Football has become across every level.
"Both men's pools went right down to the wire, with last-minute goals deciding who made the finals. The women's final was a thriller, with the combined ladies' team keeping 7th Brigade on their toes right until the end.
"The international team raises the bar every time. Several of their players had competed in high-level competitions in East Timor just the month prior.
"There is fierce competition between formations, but there was also plenty of laughter, banter and friendships rekindled."
Private Brieanna Watt, of 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, said the highlight was seeing her team come together.
"The proudest moment was seeing how hard everyone worked all week, especially those who had never played before, yet still went out there smiling and giving it their absolute all," Private Watt said.
"When that final whistle blows and your team has won, it's pure joy. The morale this game brings to everyone is unmatched."
