Men of League to host charity golf day in Gunnedah

It has been that way since the foundation’s inception more than 10 years ago. 

Its members aim to assist the rugby league fraternity suffering hardship by providing practical assistance in everything from medical operations to rehabilitation and nursing equipment, welfare support, grants and scholarships, according to menofleague.com

But without funding, many of the foundation’s invaluable contributions by a 500-strong volunteer team would not be possible.

That’s where the MOL North West committee golf day comes into play.

 Hosted by the Gunnedah Golf Club, the four-person ambrose or fourball par event and memorabilia auction on April 17 will raise funds to maintain MOL’s vital community link.

MOL committees are spread throughout the country with more than 40 branches representing every state and territory except Tasmania.

The north west committee, which covers centres from Moree to Tamworth, has played a major role in MOL fund-raising and advocacy for years.

A recent beneficiary was the widow of a local player who required a bathroom modification to allow for wheelchair access.   

Several more smaller grants have also been delivered to those in need and it’s not just the players who receive assistance.

“The foundation helps people at all levels of the game, from the country canteen worker right though to ex-internationals,” north west committee treasurer Peter Haley said.

The committee hopes to continue the success from last year’s MOL bowls day in Gunnedah.

“We haven’t had a north west MOL golf day for a few years now, so we thought it would be nice to change it up,” Haley added.

He invited all players, past and present, supporters, fans and their families to join in the day’s events – even those who reckon they couldn’t hit the skin off a custard.

“You don’t have to play golf to be a part of it,” he said.

“Just come down to the club, share a drink and laugh and enjoy yourself.”

Special guest at the golf day will be MOL’s NSW state manager and former Cronulla, Wigan and Castleford coach, Stuart Raper.

RELATED STORY: "Stuart Raper talks footy, Men of League and... music??"

The memorabilia auction will feature items such as signed team prints, including the 1963 Kangaroos side; the Magnificent Seven, a framed collection of the best seven halfbacks of the modern era and at least three fully signed 2016 NRL jerseys with one each from Brisbane, Manly and Newcastle.

Anyone interested in rugby league can join the MOL foundation. Annual membership is $20 which includes an engraved badge and four MOL magazines featuring league-related stories from communities around Australia. Visit menofleague.com for more.