The Cronulla Sharks are proud to officially launch our uniquely designed jersey for Saturday night’s Kokoda Challenge match against the Canberra Raiders.

Featuring images of members of the 39th infantry Battalion of the Australian Army, the jersey will act as a vehicle to recognise the sacrifice made by those who fought in the battle of Kokoda.

Inscribed along the waistline of the jersey are the words ‘Endurance Sacrifice Courage Mateship’, which are the words that define the ANZAC spirit, not only recognising the sacrifices made at Kokoda however the wider ANZAC movement.

Along the neck line, the Papua New Guinea and Australian flags sit side-by-side to highlight the alliance between the two nations and show the support each nation gave to each other through this traumatic time.

During this battle, the work done by a group of locals the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ was vital to the Australian effort, assisting and escorting injured Australian troops down the Kokoda trail.

The jersey, which will be auctioned following the match with the funds going to the Kokoda Track Foundation and will aid those who live on the track today.

About the Kokoda Track Foundation

The Kokoda Track Foundation exists to improve the wellbeing and futures of the Papua New Guinean people by assisting with education and healthcare, by respecting customs and the environment, by improving livelihoods, by fostering the next generation of leaders, and by keeping the story of Kokoda alive.

The key projects include: teacher training, health infrastructure, micro businesses and a leadership program.

Information taken from the Kokoda Track Foundation web page here.