Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera hosted one of its most spirited sporting events last month, as soldiers from across the country converged for the annual Army Football Championships — and for the first time in the event’s history, every regular Army formation was represented.
Sixteen teams took to the field throughout the week-long tournament, drawing players from 1st (Australian) Division, 2nd (Australian) Division, Forces Command, Aviation Command and more. By the end of the competition, 7th Brigade emerged as the champion formation, capping off a week of tight games, fierce rivalry and strong camaraderie.
In the men’s division, HQ 1st (Australian) Division secured victory over 3rd Brigade in a highly contested final. The women’s competition was equally hard-fought, with a combined 3rd and 16th Brigade side edging out 7th Brigade in a close and thrilling finish.
This year’s championships also welcomed an international guest: a team from the Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL). While they narrowly missed winning the invitational trophy on goal difference, their participation lifted the standard of play and strengthened the bonds between the two nations.
Major Ian Rainbow, Director of Regional Football, said the 2025 championships marked an important milestone for the sport.
Australian Army soldiers participate in the Army Football Championships 2025 at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane.
“The biggest highlight was having every formation in the Regular Army involved for the first time, including 10th Brigade,” Major Rainbow said.
“We also had a 2nd Division side representing the Army Reserve, and a Forces Command team representing training establishments in Victoria. It really shows how strong Army Football has become across every level.”
He said competition across all pools was exceptionally close, with last-minute goals determining who progressed to the finals.
“The women’s final was a thriller — the combined ladies’ team kept 7th Brigade on their toes right until the end,” he said.
“The international team raises the bar every time. Several of their players had competed in high-level comps in East Timor just weeks earlier.”
Despite the intensity on the field, he said the spirit of the championships was unmistakable.
“There is fierce competition between formations, but there was also plenty of laughter, banter and friendships rekindled.”
Private Brieanna Watt from the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, said the tournament created some of her proudest moments in uniform.
“The highlight was seeing how hard everyone worked all week, especially those who had never played before,” 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.”
With record participation, nail-biting matches and renewed friendships, this year’s Army Football Championships showcased not just skill, but the strong sense of unity that continues to define Gallipoli Barracks and the wider Army community.
Australian Army soldiers participate in the Army Football Championships 2025 at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane.