NRL Wests Tigers partnership with Tamworth Regional Council a possibility

Council will vote on whether to commit $20,000 a year to a partnership with the NRL team at Tuesday’s meeting.

The joint venture will deliver a year long series of programs aimed at strengthening the community.

The plan has been in discussion for six months and the partnership aligns with the community strategic plan, mayor Col Murray said.

“The Tigers can actually help deliver on that,” he said.

“We’re looking for partnership with government, it will be a matter for councillors and I don’t like to preempt it – but I think it would be pretty tough for council to find the additional $75,000.

“From a footy point of view it gives our fans and youngsters the opportunity to see professional games played here.”

The partnership comes at a $95,000 price tag, it’s uncertain where the future of the venture lies if council cannot draw funding from government agencies.

The first ever NRL season match was held in Tamworth earlier this year, and in the program footy players would work with Indigenous youth in a Tackling Truancy program, talent camp and rugby league clinics.

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Tamworth’s mental health and domestic violence issues would also be supported with workshops delivered by the club.

And, for schools, junior league participation would be encouraged through events and disability support, school holiday clinics and visits to schools by players and staff.

It’s hoped the partnership will help foster reconciliation with the Aboriginal community and make Tamworth a more inclusive place for people with disabilities.

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Council believes the activities will increase sports participation, support youth engagement, improve Indigenous relations and help with community safety and crime prevention.

The partnership will go to a vote at Tuesday’s meeting.