Ganyarra Rugby League Academy has raised more than $40,000 for disadvantaged young people in the Innisfail community, following the resounding success of its inaugural Charity Golf Day and Charity Auction Dinner held on Friday, 18 September.
All proceeds from the two events will go directly towards supporting youth from low socio-economic and troubled backgrounds in the Innisfail community, reinforcing the Academy’s mission to create brighter futures through sport and mentorship.
The events drew strong backing from across the community, with the Innisfail Golf Club, Innisfail Bowls Club, and the Innisfail Junior Leprechauns lending their support throughout the day and evening.
Former rugby league players attended both events, including Academy staff James Tamou, Michael Bani, Antonio Winterstein, and Robert Lui, as well as notable names Alex Glenn, Anthony Milford, Michael Morgan, Adrian Purtell, Josh Dugan, Sam Williams, Kane Linnett, Jake Granville, Kenny Edwards and Scott Bolton.
The Charity Auction Dinner was a particular highlight, featuring signed jerseys and football boots that attracted enthusiastic bidding. Members of the Innisfail Bowls Club were among the most active participants, competing for a range of prized memorabilia on the night.
Academy Coach James Tamou said the impact of the fundraising extends far beyond the dollar figure raised, as the proceeds will provide invaluable experiences for the young players of the Academy.
“One little spark in their lives can change them forever. We really want to take this opportunity and ride the wave while we can in this community, and take it as far as we can, help as many people as we can.”
Academy Cultural Officer Michael Bani echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Academy’s commitment to young people facing adversity.
“The cause is to give back to our community through the kids. We want to help those who come from a low socio-economic background, or come from a troubled background. It’s the least we can do to be here for them, to support them through their journey.”
Radiant Life College Principal Nathanael Edwards confirmed the strong result.
“Collectively for the golf day and the event, we raised over $40,000,” he said.
“It was a fantastic show of support from the community and a wonderful evening.”
“We’re looking forward to future opportunities to get the community together in the name of this great cause.”
A portion of the funds raised will go towards the Academy’s upcoming trip to Brisbane, where the team will compete in Anthony Milford’s Nines tournament at the end of November.
Looking further ahead, the Academy is also building plans to field a team for a trip to Samoa next year, giving more young people the chance to represent their community on a wider stage.
Given the overwhelming community support, Ganyarra Rugby League Academy is exploring the possibility of annual charity events.
About Ganyarra Rugby League Academy
The Ganyarra Rugby League Academy is a holistic development program designed to support young people in sport, well-being and life.
The academy provides students with the opportunity to strengthen their rugby league skills while also developing confidence, leadership, resilience, cultural identity and strong community connections. It reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child and creating meaningful opportunities for young people across the region.