The usual black base and yellow sash has only been worn once across the first three rounds of the GVL season, and the Tigers will ditch the traditional guernsey in round four too - all for a symbolic clash kit with deeply rooted meaning.
The white-based guernsey Rochester wore in rounds one and two, and will wear on Anzac Day against Tatura, tells a two-part story - of Rochester, the town, and a tribute to those who died fighting for Australia.
Rochester’s guernsey features a double-sash design, one yellow and black with Indigenous artwork, the other below it a row of poppies.
Across Wednesday and Thursday on the club’s social media, the Tigers detailed the symbolism behind the unique clash strip.
The Indigenous artwork is coloured yellow and black on the upper sash, and was designed by club vice-captain Dylan Gordon.
Named ‘Rochester Flood Story’ the art takes inspiration from the Campaspe River and depicts its impact on the Rochester community.
“The river is the lifeblood of our town, but it’s also a reminder of the floods that changed so many lives,” Gordon said.
“The way the design flows out from the river shows how the floods reached everyone — homes, families, the whole community.
“But it also represents how people came together.
“It’s about the people — the support, the care, everyone showing up for each other when it mattered most.”
In addition, kangaroo tracks are woven into the design, symbolising “moving forward”.
“No going back, just continuing on together,“ Gordon said.
“They also stand for strength, protection and looking after each other.”
As Anzac Day approaches and falls on Saturday in 2026, the Tigers have the fortunate opportunity to play on the exact date, and display their respects for the fallen Australian and New Zealander soldiers with the jumper it will wear against the Bulldogs.
A sash of poppies is described by the club as a “powerful symbol of remembrance”.
“They represent courage, mateship and sacrifice, values that sit at the heart of ANZAC Day and continue to shape our nation,” the social media statement read.
“Placed within our jumper, the poppies connect this story of remembrance with our own community, a quiet but powerful reminder of the importance of respect, gratitude and reflection.
“This weekend, as we take on Tatura, we wear this jumper with pride as we commemorate ANZAC Day.”
Rochester’s senior game starts at 5:00pm at Moon Oval.
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