The Gold Coast SUNS defeated QAFL side Palm Beach Currumbin in its final pre-season hit out 17.9 (111) to 5.3 (33) at People First Stadium ahead of the SUNS AFL Round One clash on Sunday. 

A number of Palm Beach Currumbin juniors faced their former side in SUNS colours, including Jed Walter (four goals) who found plenty of it in his return to action. The key forward put the SUNS on the board early in the first term and continued to impress.

The second quarter got off to a slow start before the SUNS fired successive majors and kept the Lions at bay, widening the margin to 33 points at half time.

A host of goal scorers continued to light up the scoreboard throughout the second half, including Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (two goals). Walter added another two to his tally with back-to-back majors within minutes.

Further down the field, the SUNS piled on the pressure, minimising the Lions opportunities. Defender Charlie Ballard stood strong in his second hit out since Round 1 2025 alongside young SUNS Dylan Patterson and Avery Thomas who showcased their fitness progression and connection.

Across the ground, ruckman Ned Moyle was influential and finished with a goal of his own. Ben Jepson and Zak Evans were consistent, also adding two apiece.

Lions player Jack Exell was awarded the inaugural Jackson Graham Medal, in honour of the late Palm Beach Currumbin Player and brother of SUNS midfilder Will Graham, for his best on field performance voted by SUNS coach Tate Kaesler and Palm Beach Currumbin coach David Armitage.

The SUNS first clash of the 2026 Smithy’s VFL season takes place at People First Stadium on Sunday 22 March in what is set to be an exciting 2023 Grand Final rematch against Werribee.

Goals

Gold Coast: Walter (4), Ugle-Hagan (2), Jepson (2), Sexton (2), Evans (2), Enders (1), Snowball (1), Moyle (1), Gilmore (1), Swallow (1).