The Parramatta Eels are proud to launch their 2024 ANZAC Round Jersey, a tribute to the Royal Australian Navy.
The Navy shares a rich history with the Eels’ home, with 'Parramatta' being the oldest ship name in Australian Naval history.
The 2024 ANZAC Round Jersey honours this connection, paying homage to the Navy and the four HMAS ships, named in recognition of the Parramatta River and Barramattagal people:
- HMAS Parramatta I (D55): a River-class destroyer commissioned in 1910, paid off in 1928, sold for scrap.
- HMAS Parramatta II (U44): a Grismby-class sloop commissioned in 1939, and sunk by U-559 off Tobruk on 27 November 1941.
- HMAS Parramatta III (DE 46): a River-class destroyer escort commissioned in 1961 and decommissioned in 1991.
- HMAS Parramatta IV (FFH 154): an Anzac-class frigate commissioned in 2003 and currently active in the Australian Fleet.
The Parramatta Eels 2024 ANZAC Round Jersey is available now.
Stripe detail across the chest, shoulders and back of the Jersey resembles that of the iconic Royal Australian Navy uniform, worn since the 19th century.
A wave pattern across the front of the Jersey honours the sailors on board the HMAS Parramatta II, which sunk after being struck by a torpedo in the early hours of November 27, 1941 while escorting an ammunition ship to Tobruk. 138 gold dots represent those on-board who lost their lives, while 24 white dots reflect the survivors.
Embedded on the left sleeve is the HMAS Parramatta badge, which was derived from the Parramatta City Council Seal in 1939.
The right sleeve includes the motto, ‘Strike Deep’. This motto was suggested by one of the stand-by crew of Parramatta III in 1960, and was officially adopted on 13 June 1961. ‘Strike Deep’ was thought to be appropriate by linking the badge design and Parramatta’s naval role.
The 2024 ANZAC Jersey serves to honour the Royal Australian Navy and these important connections to the Parramatta region.
The Eels will wear the Jersey against the Manly Sea Eagles on Friday 26 April in NRL ANZAC Round.
The Parramatta Eels 2024 ANZAC Round Jersey is available now.
