A DAY of rugby league and remembrance brought two communities together last weekend as the Macksville Sea Eagles hosted Woolgoolga in the second round of the Malhi-Blair Memorial Shield.
The annual fixture honours the memories of Sukhjeet Malhi from Woolgoolga and Keisha Blair from Macksville, while also shining a spotlight on the importance of mental health awareness, suicide prevention and the strength that comes from community connection.
More than just a contest on the field, the Memorial Shield provides an opportunity for players, supporters and the wider community to reflect, remember and encourage conversations around mental wellbeing.
Time2Talk, a not-for-profit organisation dealing with mental health awareness and support in the Nambucca Valley, said they were honoured to be part of the day, providing information, resources and support aimed at raising awareness and promoting suicide prevention.
Representatives from Time2Talk expressed their appreciation to the Macksville Sea Eagles, Woolgoolga players, officials, volunteers and supporters for embracing the cause and making them feel welcome.
“We extend particular thanks for being included in the team photographs, symbolising the shared commitment to promoting mental health awareness across both communities,” Time2Talk’s Paula Buckley told News Of The Area.
The generosity shown throughout the day resulted in $500 being raised through donations from players and supporters.
Local businessman David Pickvance from Macksville Auto Salon then generously matched the amount raised with a further $500 contribution, bringing the total raised to $1000.
Macksville took out the First Grade clash, defeating Woolgoolga 26-12.
Organisers thanked everyone who took the time to stop for a conversation, make a donation, offer support, or simply help spread the message that nobody should face life’s challenges alone.
While the Memorial Shield commemorates two lives tragically lost, it also serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of reaching out to others.
The event reinforced a simple but important message: it is OK to talk, OK to ask for help, and OK to check in on family, friends and teammates.
In that sense, the Malhi-Blair Memorial Shield represents far more than rugby league.
It is a tribute, a conversation-starter, and a powerful reminder that, together, communities can make a difference.
By Mick BIRTLES
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