They might not be standing on the podium, but there's a whole team of people who deserve a gold medal for their efforts at this year's Friendly Games.
From the volunteers greeting competitors with a smile to the sporting officials keeping competitions running, the 2026 Alice Springs Masters Games have been powered by an incredible community effort.
Behind the scenes, sporting clubs, venue teams, local businesses and countless helping hands have worked to make the Games a memorable experience for everyone involved.
And when unexpected challenges arose during the week, that willingness to pitch in and help one another became even more evident.
We saw it on the tennis courts, where competitors rolled up their sleeves to help with the clean-up, and across the community as people came together to keep the Games moving.
It's the kind of generosity and camaraderie that Alice Springs does so well.
For visiting competitors, the Friendly Games experience isn't just about what happens on the sporting field. It's also about the warm welcome, the familiar faces and the people who make you feel right at home.
So, to every volunteer, official, local business, sporting club and supporter who played a part in the 2026 Games, thank you.
The Friendly Games wouldn't be the Friendly Games without you.
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