THE ORIGINALS: The Macksville Rugby League Football Club's team of 1912
EVERYTHING but a telegram from The Queen is planned to celebrate the centenary of the Macksville and District Rugby League Football Club.
And the Sea Eagles are leaving nothing to chance in their preparations – the same committee who organised last year’s reunion are overseeing this year’s gala event.
Dubbed a ‘Reunion to Remember’, the gathering is scheduled on the weekend of the club’s final home game, on Saturday, August 12.
But the festivities will rage all weekend.
Friday night will comprise a meet and greet at the Nambucca Hotel, Macksville, while Saturday will see onflield action starting with Bowraville Junior League games in the morning, then the Sea Eagles under 18s, reserves and first grade in the afternoon at Allan Gillett Oval.
Saturday action will include a golden oldies Macksville side playing a Group 2 outfit, with any funds raised being split between the Men of League and Prostate Cancer Research.
There will also be a march past of former players in 20-year sections; and an enormous display of photos, DVDs and memorabilia.
The celebrations will continue on Sunday with a breakfast and lunch and special guest, rugby league icon and media personality, Tommy Raudonikas.
Reunion committee spokesperson Trevor Welsh said preparations are well in hand.
“Part of this year’s celebrations is to find the oldest living Macksville and District Rugby League player,” he told the Guardian.
“The reunion committee requests all supporters of the club to ask relatives, friends and neighbours if they are aware of anyone who may fit the criteria.
“Supporters are also requested to bring forward photos, stories or memorabilia for loan to create a display for the reunion weekend.”
Contact reunion committee president Peter Smith on 6568-4464 if you can help with any of the above.
“That’s not all that’s in store for the weekend, on Sunday there will be a SMOKO – breakfast and lunch
supplied – at the Macksville Ex-Services Club, where special guest for the day Tommy Raudonikis and several former NRL players will be attending,” Mr Welsh said.
“Macksville are playing this year in their original colours of green and maroon to commemorate the
beginning of the club. Macksville have been a very strong club, and like all clubs, they have had their tough years as well; but always bounce back.
“In the last 20 years they have been in eight first grade grand finals and won seven (premiers in 1991, 95, 2002, 03, 04, 05 and 07).
“We invite anyone who has played with Macksville, been on the committee, ladies auxiliary, supporter, sponsor, have played against us or if you just would like to come along, to do so.”
+ Ticket prices range between $40 and $90 and are available at Macksville RSL or on the newly formed website www.macksvilleseaeagles.com.au.