The Men of League Far North Queensland committee held their first function on Friday 19th February at Pride Leagues Club in Cairns, the day prior to the Cowboys v Warriors pre-season trial.
Special Guest for the event was Men of League co-founder Ron Coote AM, along with Cowboys stars Jonathan Thurston and Aaron Payne, and Coach Neil Henry. The Warriors were also represented by coach Ivan Cleary and new captain Simon Mannering. Northern Pride coach Dave Maiden, captain Chris Shepherd and Brett Anderson also attended as representatives of the local Queensland Cup team.
MC for the day, committee member Kev Maher, kept the luncheon rolling with some entertaining interviews of the guests, much to the delight of the 140 in attendance. A few of the Far North’s past champions Ron Tait, Alan Gil and John Eaton were there to join in the fun along with Steve Calder who made the trek from Brisbane for the inaugural function.
Former Sydney Easts and North Queensland Cowboys back Brad Tassell led the fundraising auction and raffle with a healthy result for the Men of League. Not satisfied there and led by Vice President Warren Pitt, Brett Moore and others took on the task of selling doubles at the trial match the following day to further bolster the coffers.
The day was an outstanding success and augers well for future functions; almost 30 new members were recruited at the luncheon itself.