One step closer

District Secretary of the CFMEU, Bob Mitchell hands APOF JRLFC player Ben Hovey a donation for $10,000, watched by (l-r) Sam Goodman, Zane Richardson Brock Caton and (back l-r) Maurie Bunker and Club President Paul Caton

ALBION Park Oak Flats JRLFC came one step closer on Monday to ensuring they would be back on track for the start of next years season, thanks to the generosity of the CFMEU and a donation to clubs fund raising activities of $10,000.

The APOF JRLFC suffered the loss of all their equipment in a fire allegedly set by vandals approximately two months ago and have been valiantly trying to raise the $25,000 needed to replace all their equipment in time for next season, ever since.

According to club President Paul Caton, the $10,000 donation from the CFMEU takes them very close to reaching their goal.

I just cant express our gratitude enough, said Mr Caton.

This money will go along way towards rebuilding the club.

You just dont know how much we appreciate it.

It has been quite humbling to see the genuine care and generosity shown by so many people since the fire.

CFMEU District Secretary Bob Mitchell said that the Union likes to support the community where it can.

We try to help out as much as we can, Mr Mitchell said.

A lot of our miners live in this area and a lot of their kids play for this club.

When we saw what had happened, we just wanted to help the kids.

To take them across the line with their fundraising activities, the club is holding a special Auction Day on Saturday November 25 from 2pm to 5pm at Albion Park Bowling Club. Just some of the items on offer include a framed, signed NSW State of Origin jumper, a framed signed 9/11 New York FireFighters shirt and a framed, signed Australian Rugby League jumper as well as many other items.

Everyone is invited to come along and show their support for the club and perhaps bid on one or more of the items up for auction.