Sport
30 March, 2026
AFL royalty to play at Port
A NEW wave of excitement has come rushing through local AFL circles, with three-time premiership player, three-time Norm Smith medallist and Brownlow winner Dustin ‘Dusty’ Martin signing to play a one-off game for the Port Douglas Crocs against club rivals South Cairns Cutters at the Croc Pit on 2 May.
The Crocs board have been hard at work organising their 2026 season, landing premiership coach Brad Cooper and bringing back a number of players.
But they pulled off the ultimate coup securing legend Dusty Martin. While the Crocs are already seen as true premiership contenders around AFL Cairns, a move like this, even if it’s just for one game, boosts the already sky-high morale so much more.
Crocs president Matt Laskey said it was significant, not only to their club, but for the whole region.
“To have a player of that calibre pull on a Crocs guernsey is something truly special,” he said.
“It will bring the community together and showcase our local football on a big stage.
“The vibe around the club is great, from juniors to seniors, everyone is super excited to play alongside or watch someone of Dusty’s calibre.”
This backs up the Crocs move from the 2024 season when they sourced club legend and Martin’s teammate Trent Cotchin for a one-off game, bringing a huge spark around the club.
The Crocs are extremely optimistic that the appearance of Martin will create the same spark.
With multiple AFL legends doing features for clubs around Cairns, such as Gary Ablett junior and Charlie Dixon, there’s no denying how positive the effects are around the clubs after the visits from the AFL legends.
“It’s so beneficial for our juniors. These kids have AFL aspirations, so being able to see and be around someone who’s accomplished so much at the highest level, is not only great for their confidence, but their skill development,” Mr Laskey said.
While the Crocs are completely aware that they have a full season ahead, this game is circled in everyone’s calendar.
The Crocs are expecting a packed house as everyone heads down to get a glimpse of AFL royalty in his first game since retiring in 2024.
