A huge congratulations to the Department of Defence who, in 2022, were crowned the NAIDOC Touch champions for a record fifth time. Defence took a lot of confidence into the knockout finals, having conceded just 5 tries during the pool matches. Questions also remain as to whether a mid-morning four helicopter flyover was coincidental or a brilliant intimidation tactic. The challengers, the Australian Research Council, put up a gallant effort but in the end were overcome 6-3.

Congratulations to both teams for being able to put in such high level performances over the full course of the day. Known for winning back-to-back titles, Defence have now set the benchmark for 2023.