Fed: Labor beats government to win game and raise $2,000

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Fed: Labor beats government to win game and raise $2,000

CANBERRA, Dec 9 AAP - Labor finally won a race against the federal government today,chalking up the winning point to claim victory in a charity basketball match and raise$2,000 for drought-stricken farmers.

Led by Deputy Opposition Leader Jenny Macklin, the Labor team of Nicola Roxon, AnnCorcoran, Tanya Plibersek, Penny Wong, Anna Burke and Jan McLucas posted 51 points toscrape ahead of the government's 50 points.

The government team was skippered by former sports minister Jackie Kelly and includedNational MP Kay Hull and Liberal backbencher Sussan Ley.

Both teams were helped by Canberra Capital WNBL players, including Kristen Veal andShelley Sandie.

However goal-scoring champion Lauren Jackson was forced to pull out after sufferinga broken nose over the weekend.

Each goal raised $20 towards the Farmhand Foundation, with Ms Kelly's husband GaryClark trying to up the stakes by pledging another $100 for every basket his wife scored.

"I only managed to shoot one," Ms Kelly told parliament.

"He obviously thought his money was safe."

Ms Macklin said the game was a way to show the parliament was doing something practicaland enthusiastic to raise money for struggling farmers.

"The great news at the end, after a very close match - it was raining," she said.

"All I can say is I hope it continues to rain where it's needed."

AAP sm/kjp/jnb d

KEYWORD: DROUGHT BALL (PIX AVAILABLE)