This episode delves into a unique chapter of football history set against the backdrop of World War II. Discover the remarkable story of the Changi Australian Football Association and the creation of the Changi Brownlow Medal within the brutal confines of Changi Prisoner of War Camp in Singapore. Despite being far from home in a hostile environment, Australian POWs found solace and a sense of normalcy through a makeshift football league. Learn how this extraordinary season symbolised the enduring spirit and camaraderie of the players amidst adversity, and how it left an indelible mark on the history of the sport. With insights from Roland Perry’s book, “The Changi Brownlow,” and historical records this is a story that honours the legacy of resilience of the prisoners at Changi and the unifying power of the Australian Game.

The Victorian and Rest of Australia teams in the final game played at Changi

The teams below were sourced from a facebook post by Bat Robertson who sourced it from the Boyles Football Photos website which, sadly, is no longer available (http://www.boylesfootballphotos.net.au/article87–Changi…). I can’t vouch for its absolute authenticity but I have been able to identify additional information on a number of the players listed that confirms they were at Changi and some of their football history. I have included links where available. If you have any additional information on the players named below please contact me at info@grandfinalhistory.au. The men who played in this unique match, and the season that preceded it, deserve every recognition