Rugby league is among the toughest of games, with an upcoming fundraising event in Dubbo showing that many of its supporters also have hearts of gold.

The return of the Jim Lang Memorial Charity Golf Day on Friday, October 24, for the Family of League Foundation hopes to raise thousands for former players – and their loved ones – who are doing it tough.

“We didn’t have any events during COVID, and the last match was a wash out, so this is the first we’ve held in a few years,” Family of League Western Region Committee fundraising secretary, Ross Tighe, explained.

“Since our inception in 2011, we’ve raised over $500,000, not just for former players, but for their families as well,” he added.

As well as helping a good cause and having a great round of fun at Dubbo Golf Club, attendees also get to rub shoulders with league legends such as Cliffy Lyons, Bruce Walker, Ronny Gibbs, and more.

“You haven’t got to be a member either, we welcome all comers, and we usually get excellent support for the event,” Ross said.

“Visitors will be given an honorary membership and a handicap, if they haven’t got one.”

The event involves teams of four entered in a shotgun Ambrose format. A morning barbecue will take place before play starts just before lunchtime, with prizes for the first 10 teams, as well as five Nearest-to-the-Pins awarded also.

Everyone is welcome, with a total of 15 golf carts available on the day. Get in quick if you want one.

“We don’t usually have a target, we never know how much we can make, it could be $30,000, and we have excellent support from the business community throughout,” Ross said.

“We’ve supported inspiring young people like Molly Croft, daughter of former local footballer, John Croft, who has become a public speaker on her condition (osteosarcoma), as well as other families in the region," he concluded.

With places filling fast, nominations must be in by Sunday, October 19. Contact Jake O’Brien or staff at Dubbo Golf Club Pro Shop for details. If you'd like to sponsor the day, contact Ross Tighe via the Family of League Foundation.