The Pirates Rugby Club have honoured two of their life members with a $5365 donation to help combat Motor Neuron Disease.
The funds were raised earlier in the season, when the reigning premiers hosted Gunnedah, for Ladies Day.
Social coordinator Steph Walsh tried a new approach to the traditional Ladies Day this season, setting up a very well attended ladies only marquee and entertainment area on the other side of the ground to the main bar and stand.
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The funds are being split between the Macquarie University Research Centre to help find a cure to the neurological disease, with the remainder going to the MND Clinic, to help people battling the terminal illness.
The cause was chosen in honour of Daryl Bath and Graham Yeo, two long time mates, former players, and committed club men who were diagnosed within a very short period of one another.
Club president Stu Prowse said that while many members of the club were aware of MND “it really hit home when the two club stalwarts were diagnosed within weeks of each other.”
“This has really raised awareness from members of the club, and given the input both the Yeo and Bath families have put into the club over the years we really want to continue supporting this cause,” he said.
“We are aware there is a lot of mystery surrounding the cause and treatment of this disease so hopefully our contributions can go a small way to helping research, but also raise awareness of the condition locally”.
The local business community also chipped in for the cause, donating plenty of goods and services for a raffle and auction on the day, while a players calcutta also proved popular.
“It was a really good day and the different setup allowed the ladies to watch the football or just enjoy a social day out, or both,” Ms Walsh said.
“It is great to be able to give back to two life members who have given so much to the club over the years.”
