Mitchell Bartram lost his life in November 2012 when he was just 16 years old, and since, his family have held the annual memorial football match in his honour.

“It’s our way to keep his memory alive,” Mitchell’s sister, Holly Bartram said.

This year the organising committee have had special guernseys made based on a design of a tattoo Mitch was planning. The guernseys and the tattoo were designed by local tattoo artist, Tony Cotter. 

This year is also set to be bigger than ever, with special guest Andrew Walker set to play.

Walker is a dual code international football player, having played rugby league for Manly, St George and the Roosters before switching to union.

He is also the chief executive officer for Break the Cycle, a not-for-profit which aims to break the cycle of self-abuse, self-harm, low self-esteem and addictions with young people.

The day will be a great family day out, with kids minis also playing prior to the main match, a jumping castle and face painting.

The winning team will take home the Mitchell Bartram Memorial Shield, while there will also be a presentation for the Mitchell Bartram Man (or woman) of the Match, the Aaron O’Neill Best Scorer, and Tom Rhode Encouragement Award. 

Both Aaron O’Neill and Tom Rhode also tragically died young. 

“Aaron O’Neill and Tom Rhode were close family friends so we’ve involved them to keep their memories alive as well,” Ms Bartram said.

The presentation will be held at the Golden Grain Hotel at Pallamallawa.

This year the annual football match will be between the Mitchell Bartram Memorial team (made up of Mitchell’s family, friends and anyone wishing to play for Mitchell) and a team of Moree boys.

The Mitchell Bartram Memorial Football game will be held at the Pally Oval from 3pm on Saturday. Proceeds from the barbecue at the oval will be donated to the Pallamallawa Public School.