NRL clubs, communities and fans will unite throughout Round One of the 2019 NRL Telstra Premiership, with donations and collections taken up for those affected by the recent North Queensland floods.
NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder confirmed the NRL will donate $100 for every point scored across round one, through the St Vincent de Paul Society, with additional fundraising efforts confirmed across all 16 clubs.
“Rugby League has an incredible spirit when it comes to supporting one another in times of need,” Mr Boland-Rudder said.
“The people of North Queensland have shown just how resilient they are in recent times after devastating floods swept through the region, and it’s fantastic to have every club getting behind fundraising efforts to help out those affected.
“The Cowboys in particular are to be commended, for not only helping out their fellow neighbours and teammates in Townsville during the floods, but leading the charge in lifting community spirits.”
The North Queensland Cowboys will take on the St George Illawarra Dragons at home on Saturday night, with the match re-named the “Together For North Queensland” game.
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland’s Chief Executive Officer Kevin Mercer thanked the NRL, NRL Clubs and the wider rugby league community on behalf of the people of North Queensland.
“Vinnies was formed in 1894 after the Great Brisbane Flood to help with the devastation facing the community and 125 years later we’re still here supporting Queenslanders impacted by natural disasters - flood, fire or drought,” Mr Mercer said.
”To every single club, player, official and fan supporting us this weekend – know that every dollar raised will go directly to people affected by this terrible event.”