Joint-funding package to benefit flood-affected NSW communities

The NSWRL has joined forces with the NSW Government and major partner Westpac to deliver $120,000 in funding to assist mid-north NSW communities that were affected by severe flooding last month.

The joint-funding package was announced today at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence by NSW Minister for Sport, the Hon. Steve Kamper and Westpac General Manager Commercial Banking Shane Howell, together with NSWRL Chair Carolyn Campbell and NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden. Also in attendance was the Westpac NSW Blues, and about 200 Junior Rugby League participants.

“I am pleased to be able to announce this funding package today and I am grateful to both the NSW Government and our major partner Westpac for supporting this initiative,” Campbell said.

“The mid-north coast of NSW was badly affected by flooding last month and these funds will play a significant role in helping Junior Rugby League clubs get back on their feet and continue with the season.

“One of the wonderful things about our great game is how the Rugby League community always rallies around those who need it to help, and this is another example of that.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper applauded the funding from Westpac and the NSWRL and confirmed the Minns Labor government would match the combined total.

“It’s great to see both Westpac and the NSWRL pledge this funding, and we are proud to be matching their contribution,” Mr Kamper said.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time for communities across the North Coast and the Minns Labor government is proud to secure this funding to help Mid-North Coast Rugby League clubs get back on their feet.”

Shane Howell, General Manager Commercial Banking at Westpac, said: “One of the things we love most about our partnership with NSW Rugby League is the impact this partnership has in local communities across New South Wales.

“This funding is another demonstration of that, and a further sign of our support for those who were impacted by the recent floods.”

The NSWRL and Westpac have both contributed $30,000 in funding with the NSW Government matching both donations and providing $60,000 to take the total to $120,000.

The Mid-North Coast Junior Rugby League Flood Recovery funding will go towards clubs in Taree, Kempsey and Port Macquarie and will be used to replace damaged equipment and key appliances i.e. footballs, training equipment, fridges, microwaves, line markers, etc.

Following the announcement, a Westpac State of Origin Clinic was held with the Westpac NSW Blues and 200 children from Junior Rugby League clubs in the area including Taree Red Rovers JRL, Taree Panthers JRL, Wingham Tigers JRL, Kempsey Dragons JRL and Smithtown Tigers JRL.

The Westpac NSW Blues have been active in the community in recent seasons including a visit to Lismore in 2022 to spread some goodwill among 1000 teenagers from high schools and Junior Rugby League clubs across northern NSW that had been affected by severe flooding.

True Blues Brad Fittler, Andrew Johns, Danny Buderus, Angus Crichton, Damien Cook, Cameron Murray, Kezie Apps and Kylie Hilder visited Taree and surrounding communities in 2019 after they had been impacted by devastating bush fires.

The Blues headed into camp today at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence at Sydney Olympic Park to begin preparations for Game Three of the Ampol State of Origin series at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Wednesday 9 July.

The Blues are the current Shield holders after winning the series last year 2-1. They won the opening game of the series 18-6 in Brisbane before Queensland ensured a decider after claiming Game Two in Perth 26-24.

The Blues will relocate to their base in the Blue Mountains tomorrow (Tuesday 1 July) before returning to Sydney Olympic Park next week.