IT was a rugby league knock-out competition that drew nearly 30 teams from across New South Wales and southern Queensland – but it was much more than that.

The ABCARE Greater Western Challenge at Boughton Oval on Saturday – hosted by Moree Boars Rugby League Club – was about bringing people together.

And while Cabbage Tree Island, about 40km east of Lismore, overpowered Moree’s Gomeroi Bloodlines 36-18 to win the final, the real winners at Boughton Oval at the weekend were the nearly 4000 spectators who lined two ovals to cheer home their favourite teams.

The 40-minute games started at around 8am and played continuously until early evening, with Cabbage Tree Island running in six tries against the local side.

Coach Des Anderson said his team was buoyant about their chances.

“It was a good day, and we came out here quietly confident about the job we set ourselves,” Anderson said.

“The boys played really well in all games and never once took a backward step in defence, and it was our defence that allowed our attacking players to shine.

“Stand-outs for the weekend were Chad Banks up front leading the way. He really set the tone with his hard running and solid defence,” Anderson said.

“Matt Toole at hooker played with all his heart and led from the front, and our captain, Brandon Anderson, scored a try in every game. He was always dangerous whenever he touched the ball.

“James Torrens in the centres had a really big day for us as well. He’s always a handful, and scored a very determined try early in the second half, and Paul Roberts at lock was exceptional with his leadership all day.

“Overall, our squad really played well, helping and carrying each other all day, and as a coach, all you ask of your boys is to play for one another,” Anderson said.

Moree was represented on both sides of the coin in the ladies final, with Ed John Saunders Memorial scraping home 18-16 against Gamilaroi Sisters United.

The carnival was also supported by Quit B Fit, a health program specifically designed to tackle Indigenous smoking rates in New South Wales and the NSW Government’s Tackling Domestic Violence Campaign.

Moree Boars club president Todd Mitchell said the knock-out carnival, an alcohol-free event with smoking and vaping not permitted on the grounds, was all about mateship and camaraderie.

“The games have been busy and hectic – and so has running them,” Mitchell smiled.

“But it’s been a great day. Everyone’s well-behaved, and enjoying the footy. There’s been no dramas at all.

“Something like this is good for Moree, and good for footy. It brings people together and gets a lot of players who normally don’t play footy, having a game – they could be rugby players or involved in other sports,” he said.

“There’re also players from other towns who are running on with blokes from Moree, and that makes it a great community event.

“A day like this is great for the town, and great for rugby league,” Mitchell said.

Police Inspector Darren Williams echoed Mitchell’s words.

“The community has come together on a very hot day to watch some excellent football, and the friendships and good times gives it a really positive vibe. It’s been fantastic,” he said.

“You can see it and feel it. The people have had a wonderful time, with some sensational football played – it’s just a really good gathering of people.”

The knock-out drew some big names to Boughton Oval, including NRL Women’s Cronulla Sharks star Rhiannon Byers, who played with Mason Daley Memorial, named in honour of her good friend who was tragically killed in a car accident two years ago this month.

Mason lived at Gravesend, attended Warialda High School with Rhiannon, and played in the Group 19 rugby league competition with Bingara Bullets.

“Mason was one of my good mates and every time I play, I always dedicate a game to him,” Byers said.

“He played in last year’s NRLW grand-final with me, was there on my debut, and got my first try with me, so it’s pretty special.”

Byers said carnivals like the ABCARE Greater Western Challenge were important for Moree.

“This day is pretty special,” she said.

“I know there’s a lot of publicity about all the crime that’s going on in Moree, and I think this is an opportunity for the community to see the positive side.

“Days like this also shows the kids they can make it and do it, and give back to the community – that’s very important,” she said.

Byers ran on in last year’s NRLW grand-final when beaten 32-28 by Sydney Roosters.

“We start our pre-season on May 12 and our first game is in July,” she said.

“We’ll try and get to the grand-final again – go back-to-back – and hopefully get the win this time.”

Words and Images: Bill Poulos

(Team image courtesy of Des Anderson)