Chugby (chick’s rugby) between St Albert’s and Robb Colleges at UNE has now been promoted to an annual event to help raise funds for charity.
The women’s rugby game will be played at Bellevue Oval this Friday, July 6. Gates open at 3pm for a 3.30 kick-off and entry is $5 per person, with security donated by SNP to help create a family friendly environment.
“I decided to create an event where all proceeds, including gate entry, bar and BBQ profits would be donated to designated charities,” said organiser, Samantha Lees.
With such a huge focus on men’s rugby at St Albert’s College, many of the girls who had previously played touch football or rugby at school were keen to get a team together, just not sure how to go about it. Samantha decided to step up, with help from Alex Downes, and explained how much planning goes into such an event.
“I had to have meetings with Sport UNE for donation of the grounds, apply for a bar licence, organise an event form, organise insurance for players, get enough food and beverages for everyone and to find volunteers for the day.
“It takes a lot of time and effort for full organisation, and Alex and I chose to make it a fundraising event as it is at the end of ‘Albies Week’, where college students donate their time to volunteer help within the community,” said Samantha.
Last year, the event raised just over $3000. As a result, $2350 was generously donated to Camp Quality on behalf of St Albert’s College. With the remainder, $750 was donated to the Black Dog Institute on behalf of Robb College.
This year, all proceeds will be donated to The Heart Donation, chosen by Samantha on behalf of St Albert’s College, Aussie Helpers on behalf of Robb College and ‘Tour de Cure’ on behalf of both colleges, with thanks going to SportUNE.
Samantha has also gained assistance from younger fellow residents Emily Cox, Travis Saxby and Henry Pendleburry, to ensure that the success of ‘Chugby for Charity’ continues in the future.
With high expectations for an entertaining game and successful donations to charity, ‘Chugby for Charity’ this year looks to be a great family friendly and fun event. So bring along your family and friends and experience the great atmosphere at Bellevue Oval on Friday, July 6.
Story: Rebecca Bastin
