Far North clubs short-listed for national award
TWO FAR North sporting clubs have made the shortlist in a nationwide search to uncover and celebrate the unsung heroes of Australian grassroots sport.
Edmonton Junior Rugby League Club and Ellis Beach Surf Life Saving Club both made the cut for the final round of voting in the 2019 Sportcover Clubbies Awards’ Best Club category.
Founded in 2002, Edmonton JRL is now the largest junior rugby league club in FNQ, catering to Cairns’ fast-growing southern corridor.
The club has more than 400 players who come from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, South Sea Islander, Polynesian and non-English speaking.
Edmonton JRL has enjoyed grand final and representative success in its 17 years, but grants officer Daniel Erbacher said it was scoring the most tries off the field.
“What we are most proud of is the worthwhile sense of community engagement and character development that is a part of being one of our players,” he said.
Ellis Beach Surf Life Saving Club director Rachael Wynberg said, despite its small size, the club had “a big heart”.
“Our 180 volunteer members provide more than 2500 patrol hours each year in our quest to ensure zero preventable deaths in Queensland public waterways,” she said.
“In addition to patrols, it is estimated over 6000 volunteer hours are given to other community service. There are no paid employees at the club.”
Award winners will receive prizes valued at more than $10,000.
To show your support and cast a vote for either of these local clubs visit www.insidesport.com.au/clubbies/vote.