The local branch were joined by national wellbeing manager Ben Ross to present $600 to Merimbula-Pambula Bulldog Nick Hehir, who suffered a horrific back injury three years ago. 

“We didn't know about Nick's accident for a long while, but as soon as we were aware, we put the wheels in motion to do something about it,” FSC branch president Col Clarke says. 

“We can't pay for all the medical bills but we just wanted to give him a bit of a helping hand.”

Mr Hehir has undergone surgery for the injury, but still suffers regular pain. 

“He's a tradesman, a carpenter and he was waking up wondering how much pain he would be in that day,” Clarke said. 

"It’s not something that will ever go away, but we wanted to give him a bit of relief.”

Clarke said the group had also taken Hehir’s case to the NRL insurance company and were hoping to get him additional support from the governing body. 

The work of the Men of League group is about helping current and former members of the rugby league community get back on their feet if they’ve fallen on hard times. 

But it can also be a bonding experience and providing a social outlet, Clarke says. 

“A lot of players lose contact after they finish playing and they can go through the ‘black dog’ [depression] and we’re here to strive to help anyone down on their luck,” he said. 

The local branch holds two major annual fundraisers in their lawn bowls and golf days, which are coming up in November and January respectively. 

Last year the golf day alone raised more than $9000 to help. 

“Con Zurcas of Eden Motor Group is on board again for this great event and it’s fantastic to see it is growing every year,” Clarke said. 

If you would like to do your part and donate you can visit the website at www.menofleaguefoundation.com or you can e-mail ben@menofleague.com.

Anyone looking to join the Men of League or volunteer some time to help the group can contact Col Clarke on 0412 764 740.