The memorial game, to be played on Saturday 28 February in honour of Matthew Locke who was killed in Afghanistan in 2007, will see Australian Army Thunder defend their fifth straight win against Bellingen Valley-Dorrigo Magpies.

His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retired), Governor of New South Wales, and VC recipient Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith will be among special guests at the game including NRL ambassadors Stephen Turner and Michael Crocker.

Mates4Mates Managing Director Peter Davies said it was an honour to be chosen as one of the charities for an event which helps keep Matthew Locke’s spirit alive.

“Physical activity and community support are so important to the recovery of our injured current and ex-Defence personnel, so this game encapsulates the spirit of what we’re all about,” Mr Davies said.

“We help families like Matthew Locke’s on a daily basis to deal with the grief and trauma of losing loved ones in conflicts, so raising funds at games like this is vital for the ongoing support the charity can give.

“So why not go along for a great game of footy, take a mate and support Matthew Locke’s family and Mates4Mates.”

Event Organiser and Matthew Locke’s sister Debbie Locke said they’ve managed to raise $55,000 for various organisations since the inaugural event.

“Through The Grub Club, a charity started by our family, we’ve sent resources to schools in Afghanistan, built a school in Timor Leste and we’re looking at adding two kindergartens and a sponsor teacher through university,” Ms Locke said.

“Local sporting organisations including Bellingen Valley Dorrigo Junior Rugby League and Bellingen Cricket will also benefit.”

The event kicks off with a three ball Ambrose at Bellingen Golf Club this Friday 27 February.  Gates open for the Sgt Matthew Locke MG Charity Match at 1pm on Saturday 28 February; entry is $5 for adults and gold coin for pensioners.

The weekend will finish with the Army Band performance at C.ex Coffs Harbour from 11am on Sunday 1 March.