28^th February 2009

On Saturday afternoon a capacity crowd turned out in Bellingen to watch the inaugural Matthew Locke Memorial Rugby League Charity Match between Bellingen/Dorrigo Magpies and the Australian Army Thunder. The crowd was warmed up by the preliminary match between under 18 sides Bellingen/Dorrigo and Macksville with the home side going down 28 to 6 in a tough clash.

The main game got under way after an impressive rendition of the National Anthem by Erica and Brea Cross of Bellingen and was hotly contested with the score line seesawing after Thunder crossed the line first. The final score was 24 to 16 with Thunder going down by a narrow margin after an exciting last minute try to Bellingen. Best and fairest for each team were Shane Harden-Purnell for army and for Bellingen it was Alex Hull. One army insider was heard to comment on the exciting play and was even keen to head hunt Matt Bush for his side.

The game was well attended not only by members of the public but also by representatives from the Locke family as well as Federal and State members and representatives from local RSM and RSL clubs and Coffs Harbour Legacy. Special guests were Lt. General Ken Gillespie Chief of Army and Warrant Officer Steve Ward patron for the Thunder.

$5626.20 has been raised for Legacy and Life, Love & Health a grassroots charity looking after educational projects in East Timor. Organisers, particularly Graham (Mushy) Matthews and Sgt Nick Matthews and helpers worked very hard to pull off a great day and should be proud of their efforts. It is planned that this event will be come a regular on the Bellingen calendar with Thunder promising to win next year.

Thanks to all helpers and supporters for  making this event a great day.

Photos: Richard Layt Photography