NRL Wheelchair Military Team to Face UK Armed Forces in ANZAC Weekend Clash

NRL Wheelchair Military Team is set to take on the UK Armed Forces team, this ANZAC weekend, at South Pine Indoor Sports Centre in Brendale, Brisbane. 

The UK Armed Forces squad will tour Australia for 10 days, with the Brisbane clash forming a centrepiece of their visit. Our military team is preparing for a fierce contest against a red-hot UK outfit who recently defeated Wales, a World Cup contender.

Wheelchair Rugby League continues to play a vital role within the defence community, with a strong and growing number of current and former Australian Defence Force members engaging in the sport. The inclusive nature of the game provides a unique and meaningful pathway for connection, wellbeing and identity following transition from military service.

This event further cements NRL Wheelchair’s affiliation and expanding initiatives with the Australian Defence Force, RSL Australia and Invictus Australia. Through sport, these partnerships create opportunities for connection, camaraderie and mateship, and supporting veterans as they navigate life beyond service.

Fans are encouraged to attend and witness a high-quality, physical and inspiring contest that embodies the ANZAC values of courage, sacrifice and unity.

Both teams proudly represent personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing the strength and unity of all three services.

Event Details:

Game: NRL Wheelchair Military vs UK Armed Forces
Date: Sunday 26 April 2026
Location: South Pine Indoor Sports Centre, Brendale, Brisbane
Captains Run: 12.00pm
Kick-Off: 1:00pm

Peter Arbuckle – Serving in the Australian Army

NRL Wheelchair Military Team

• Pete Arbuckle #1
• Carrie Ann Bishop # 2
• Stephen French # 3
• Sheryl O’Brien #4
• Russell O’Brien #5
• Brett Bazley #6
• Jayson Hooker #7
• Zeke Field #9
• David MacGregor #10
• Chris O’Brien #11
• Coach Zac Schumacher
• Assistant Coach & Team Manager Kerri-Ann Woodbury
• Team Mechanic Geoff Kruger
• Sports Trainer Adam Schefe
• Tags Runner Jack Kruger

Corporal Carrie-Anne Bishop served 13 years for the Australian Army

UK Armed Forces Team

•  Steve Sampher (C) – Ex Army (Light Dragoons)
• James Simpson-Hill (VC) – Ex Army  (Yorkshire Regiment)
• Tom Oates – Ex Army (Scots Guards)
• Justin Wells – Ex Army (Royal Logistics Corps)
• Karl Shepherd – Ex Army (Prince of Wales’ Own Regiment of Yorkshire)
• Ben Wilson – Ex RAF
• Ben Dunwell – Ex RN
• Coach Ian Stapleton
• Tags Runner Dawn Shore  & Tour Asst Welfare Officer & Inclusion Officer
• Tour Manager Sean Fanning

Follow NRL Wheelchair on Instagram for updates over the ANZAC weekend.