Forbes Rugby Union is gearing up for another big event with tickets to their ladies day snapped up.
As the Platypi take the field against Orange Emus on Saturday, 12 July, there’ll be a lunch and live music at the lake-side ovals with the focus on a cause close to the community’s heart.
All senior grades will wear purple arm bands on both sides, club president Sam Parish explains, as they seek to raise awareness of domestic violence and extend support to those affected.
There’ll be a jersey auction in the evening to raise funds for RizeUp Australia, an organisation with a mission to drive awareness of domestic and family violence with practical support for the families affected, giving them the hope, empowerment and ability to move on to a life free from violence.
Platypi women take the field at 12.40pm, followed by the Second XV and then First XV at 3.15pm.
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It’s looking like a big day in a series of key events for the club.
At their last home game, Forbes Rugby Union raised $17,000 towards its facilities and development fund.
The long-sleeved cotton jerseys were reminiscent of earlier uniforms in the club’s history, and were auctioned for more than $17,000.
This initiative aims to create a safe and inclusive environment for players, spectators and the community, Parish said.
The Platypi have had a senior women’s team for a number of years now and the inclusion this year of two junior women’s sides for a short competition only put the spotlight on the need for better facilities.
This includes changerooms and amenities, but also the need for high grade lighting for both Grinsted and South Circle ovals.
Upgraded lighting would open up opportunities for night games or Shute Shield rugby, importantly it would improve training conditions for the club’s local players through the dark winter evenings.
“Both senior and junior club this year have record numbers but we desperately need lighting infrastructure to be able to accommodate that,” Parish said.
“We don’t have the space to have four teams running out there at the moment.
“We’re filling that ground down there six days a week – seven if they have a walla gala day Sunday.”
Forbes Rugby Union Club has had a huge focus on raising funds for the community and charitable causes in recent years, with more than $80,000 donated in 2024 alone.
While they’ll certainly continue to dig deep for community and causes – this weekend’s support for RizeUp just one example, they’re also investing in the club this year which will also benefit the community.
Parish was delighted to see the cause receive widespread support on the night.
“The investment from a wide range of people was phenomenal, to see that support really boosts the confidence in what the club is doing as a whole,” he said.
He’s now looking forward to welcoming the community to this Saturday’s important event.
