MELBOURNE has revealed its 2025 ANZAC Day Eve Guernsey, honouring an important Royal Australian Air Force tradition in its poignant design.   

Created by Flight Lieutenant Aimee McCartney, this year’s artwork showcases an evocative depiction of the Missing Man Formation — a powerful aerial tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. 

This formation, a moving symbol of remembrance, is a ceremonial flight performed by aircraft in honour of fallen soldiers, sailors, and aviators. In the manoeuvre, one aircraft pulls away from the formation, soaring upward to represent a missing comrade, leaving a striking void in the sky

The remaining aircraft continue in tight formation, embodying the unbroken bond, unity, and strength of those who live on, carrying forward the enduring spirit of the fallen. 

The gap created by the rising aircraft serves as a solemn reminder of the loss felt by loved ones, while its ascent symbolises the service, spirit, and pride of the fallen — a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice that defines those who have served and continue to serve our country.  

McCartney spoke to the significance of her design, which features F-35A Lightning II aircraft, and what it’ll mean to see it on the MCG in nine days’ time.  

“I can't stress enough the feeling of knowing that not only the players, but supporters will be wearing this on ANZAC Day Eve,” McCartney said. 

“It's going to be an incredible opportunity for them to feel a sense of pride and to know that the strength and the resilience of these particular aircraft are on their chest and will take them into the game that evening. 

“I definitely hope the players understand the ultimate sacrifice that's occurred, not only in the past, but in present day for those of us that are currently wearing our uniform. 
 
“On ANZAC Day Eve, when the lights dim and we go through the official ceremony and you see the lights projected onto all of the players and the guernsey, it’s going to be a moment in my career I will never forget.” 

In addition to McCartney’s design at the front of the jumper, the back of the guernsey features the names of the Melbourne players who lost their lives while serving for their country during the world wars. 

The guernsey also includes the ANZAC Appeal logo, with a percentage of proceeds donated back to the RSL’s ANZAC Appeal, supporting veterans and their families. 

This year’s game will open the AFL’s ANZAC Appeal Round and will mark the 10th anniversary since the first of the much-loved clash between the Dees and Tigers. 

Melbourne will host Richmond at the MCG for this year’s instalment, with fans encouraged to book their tickets early and upgrade to a reserved seat for the best views in the house.  

While the first bounce is scheduled for 7:30pm, the special pre-game ceremony will begin at 6:45pm, a moment where football fans come together and share in a silent and solemn moment of reflection before the two teams run through a joint banner.  

The guernsey is now available for fans to purchase via The Demon Shop, thanks to our official apparel partner, New Balance.