Woy Woy club continues support for Men's Shed

When famous Wallaby captain Nick Farr-Jones spoke at Woy Woy Rugby Union's season launch in 2013, a decision was made to make the Umina Men's Shed the club's chosen charity.

The decision was to make a donation to an institution catering for local people, engendering camaraderie within the local community.

It was an effort to show that the Rugby Union Club was not simply for the enjoyment of its players and supporters but for a wider selection of local people.

As long-time committeeman and former president Mr John Kenney said: "We talk about the game teaching young people that life is not all about winning nor about personal gain, but about team work and helping others, so what better way to show it than by forming an association with the Men's Shed which has much the same ethos."

Following launches in 2014 and 2015 featuring equally famous Wallaby captains, John Eales and George Gregan, the club has donated almost $8000 to help the Men's Shed.

In return, the club has been given a magnificent hand-crafted lectern and several Men's Shed members now attend the games.

Club president Brian Macauley, a former NSW representative, said the association with the Men's Shed has proven one of its best moves.

"It's been great to get more community support and to help such a valuable institution."

Men's Shed president, local lawyer, Darrell Pannowitz, is equally enthused.

"We are appreciative of the financial support given which has allowed us to buy some valuable equipment and it's very pleasing to see some of our members enjoying the games on a Saturday afternoon."

This year's launch, to be held at Ettalong Diggers on February 26, will feature another famous Wallaby, Mark Ella, the first indigenous captain of any national sporting team, as well as Gordon Bray, "the Voice of Rugby".

The club is confident that this year's donation will take the total to over $10,000.

Article, 18 Jan 2016

Peter Fenton, Woy Woy Rugby Union Club