Ganyarra Rugby League Academy has raised more than $40,000 to support young people in Innisfail through its first charity golf day and auction dinner.
Held on Friday, September 18, the events brought together community groups and former rugby league players to raise funds for young people from low socio-economic backgrounds or facing difficulties in their lives.
All proceeds will support the academy's work creating opportunities through sport and mentorship, including trips for players to compete outside the region.
Wagadagam man from Mabuiag Island and academy cultural officer Michael Bani highlighted the importance of supporting young people through those challenges.
"The cause is to give back to our community through the kids," Mr Bani said.
"We want to help those who come from a low socio-economic background, or come from a troubled background.
"It's the least we can do to be here for them, to support them through their journey."
The Innisfail Golf Club, Innisfail Bowls Club and Innisfail Junior Leprechauns supported the events throughout the day and evening.
Signed jerseys and football boots attracted bids at the auction dinner, with Innisfail Bowls Club members among those competing for memorabilia.
Dyirribarra and Dulgabara man from the Mamu Nation and Radiant Life College principal Nathanael Edwards acknowledged the community's contribution to the fundraising result.
"Collectively for the golf day and the event, we raised over $40,000," Mr Edwards said.
"It was a fantastic show of support from the community and a wonderful evening.
"We're looking forward to future opportunities to get the community together in the name of this great cause."
A portion of the funds will support the academy's upcoming trip to Brisbane, where players will compete in Anthony Milford's Nines tournament at the end of November.
Plans are also being developed to take a team to Samoa next year, giving more young people the opportunity to represent their community.
Māori man and academy coach James Tamou highlighted how those experiences could shape young players' futures.
"One little spark in their lives can change them forever," Mr Tamou said.
"We really want to take this opportunity and ride the wave while we can in this community, and take it as far as we can, help as many people as we can."
Mr Tamou and Mr Bani attended both events alongside fellow academy staff Antonio Winterstein and Robert Lui.
Other players attending included Alex Glenn, Anthony Milford, Michael Morgan, Adrian Purtell, Josh Dugan, Sam Williams, Kane Linnett, Jake Granville, Kenny Edwards and Scott Bolton.
The academy supports young people's development in sport, wellbeing and life, combining rugby league training with opportunities to build confidence, leadership, resilience, cultural identity and community connections.
Following the fundraising result, the academy is exploring holding charity events annually.
