Grand final fever among troops in the Middle East exploded into a win for Legacy thanks to the generosity of National Rugby League (NRL).
Watching the Grand Final at Camp Baird, deployed troops raised troops raised close to $2500 for the charity Legacy though raffles and an auction of NRL-donated merchandise.
Top among the troops was Warrant Officer Class One Michelle Crouch with her winning bid of just under $900 for a Bulldog's jersey.
"My husband is a massive Bulldog's fan, this will help console him for their not making the final," she said.
"It will also remind him that I am constantly thinking of him while I am deployed."
Welfare officer and event organiser Flight Sergeant Steve Weaver said the event meant everything in the world for NRL fans so far from home.
"The soldiers, sailors and airmen work seven days-a-week in the Middle East, so when they are allowed a short amount of time off to watch the footy it is great for their morale," he said.</p
"Everyone loves the game and watching it here brings a little bit of home to us.
"The NRL's continued support for the troops deployed overseas gives us a positive message of their support and we were thrilled to raise some extra funds for Legacy."
Legacy provides services to Australian families suffering financially and socially after the incapacitation or death of a spouse or parent, during or after their defence force service.
Currently Legacy cares for some 90,000 widows and 1,900 children and disabled dependants throughout Australia.
