2023 Reclink Community Cup

On Sunday the 18th of June 2023, 10,000 people headed to Victoria Park in Abbortsford at the former home of the Collingwood Football Club for the 30th edition of the Reclink Community Cup – the much-adored annual charity footy match between the Megahertz (Triple R 102.7FM & PBS 106.7FM) and the Rockdogs Football Clubs.

After wins in 2019 and 2022, the Megahertz had a THREEPEAT in sight. But they had a tough road ahead of them, with the Rockdogs putting up a strong first half and leading for the majority of the game. The Megahertz fought back, dominated the second half and pulled off a brilliant come from behind victory.

Disappointingly, this year’s Cup has been shrouded in controversy. Rumours and conspiracy theories abound regarding an alleged early final siren. Umpires deny the whispers of a half-time promise of half-price funk from Chris Gill's Northside Records but three people in lime green t-shirts were spotted on Gertrude St this morning sporting heavy tote bags.

Megahertz Spiritual Leader, Pauly ‘The Persuader’ P allegedly disappeared for the last couple of minutes of the game and insiders talk of cries of fear coming from the volunteer siren controller’s office. Pauly has only responded, “no comment”.

People are now calling it #SirenGate. The Steve Connolly Medal for Best On Ground award went to Megahertz Sam Cummins, who presents his radio show Press Colour on Triple R 102.7FM.

Final score: Megahertz 6.6.42 defeated Rockdogs FC 6.3.39.

Thanks to the stellar performers who also made the day one to remember – Close Counters, Cosmic Psychos, Gut Health, Our Carlson, Mz Rizk, Teeny Tiny Stevies and The Merindas!

And of course, all funds raised will go to Reclink Australia and support the incredible work that they do.

I have been covering the Community Cup now since 2007 and this was the first time I was unable to photograph the big day, as I was recovering from surgery in St Vincent's Hospital. Even after covering Rockdog's Pie Night at Northcote Social Club, doing all of the photography for this year's massive Footy Cards (which now include key personel and cheerleaders, as well as the footy players) and all of the promotional shots for the Community Cup media launch. Personally for me, it was like cooking up a scrumptious four course meal but never getting to saviour one spoonful.

Shannon J Shaw who was to be assisting me on the big day, stepped up to the plate and produced this truly superb Community Cup photo gallery in my absence. Shannon is such a great talent and a natural behind the lens. It makes me very proud to see the colourful vibrant imagery that Shannon was able to produce.

NB: Unfortunately there's no Cosmic Psychos photographs, as Shannon had to leave early to photograph another event that night.