An AFL match played in memory of two fallen police officers, will be hosted in Launceston tomorrow.

Now in its 18^th year, AFL teams Hawthorn and St Kilda have played off for Blue Ribbon Cup since 1999.  This is only the third time Tasmania has hosted the match and the second consecutive year.

The cup is dedicated to those who have lost their lives while on duty; commemorating the tragic deaths of Victorian Officers Senior Constable Rodney Miller and Sergeant Gary Silk, who were shot at close range while conducting surveillance duties in Moorrabin, Victoria in 1998.

Both men were passionate about Australian Football, this annual game ensures that the legacy of the men continues.

“Participation in team sports provides is a great avenue for many of our officers to shake off the stresses of their jobs.  The loss of any member of that team is felt deeply; just as the loss of any of our colleagues within emergency services resonates deeply throughout all the jurisdictions” said Commissioner of Police Darren Hine.

“It is a great honour to be able to commemorate our emergency services through this event and to participate in the presentation of the medals to the players, post-match,” he said.

Our Tasmania Police Charity Trust members will also be present at the game; organising a charitable collection with proceeds from the event going to St Giles in Launceston. St Giles is an organisation providing a range of support services to families living with disability.

The Commissioner of Tasmania Police, Darren Hine, and Victorian Deputy Commissioner, Wendy Steendham, will be present at the match and will make presentation of the silver Blue Ribbon medals to the players after the match.

The match will kick-off at 1.45pm at Launceston’s University of Tasmania Stadium.