DEFENCE Reserves Support (DRS) was the sponsor of Port Adelaide’s Anzac Round clash against the Gold Coast Suns on April 23^rd.  DRS are an important part of the Australian Defence Force, providing a link between Australia’s 45,000 Army, Navy and Air Force Reservists, their employers and the community.  People joining the Reserve make a commitment to train and serve in the defence and protection of Australia.  DRS assists Reservists and their employers to make the most of every individual’s commitment.  Today we are increasingly drawing on the skills and expertise of Reservists to maintain the Defence Force’s capability.

On Tuesday April 20^th Port Adelaide held a press conference at Alberton Oval where players Paul Stewart, Jasper Pittard, Cameron O’Shea and coach Matthew Primus were joined by members of the DRS and shown army hardware.  Matthew Primus then addressed the media on how honoured the Club was to pay tribute during ANZAC round.

Saturday’s game kicked off with a cocktail event for 120 guests taking place at the grounds Stadium Room.  Pre-match featured a curtain raiser against an Australian Defence Force team and the Australian Combined Emergency Services.  Port Adelaide gave hundreds of Defence personnel based in Adelaide the AFL experience allowing them to watch the Power take on the Suns from the stands.  The ANZAC Observance Ceremony, including the reading of The Ode and the playing of the Last Post, followed by a minute’s silence and the National Anthem preceded the bounce.

The Port Adelaide Football Club signed a Statement of Employer Support endorsing the following:

“Thousands of Reserves, who are members of the Navy, Army and Air Force, have served in Australia and overseas in recent years.  When called upon, these men and women serve alongside their colleagues in the Permanent Forces with courage and dedication, and often at considerable personal sacrifice. We admire their commitment and are determined to support all employees in the Reserve."