The Wests Group | 2023 Community Report

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Wests Group Australia acknowledges the First Peoples of Australia and recognises their ongoing role as traditional custodians of the land and waters of this country. We acknowledge the people and lands that fall within our organisational footprint, the Awabakal, Worimi, Darkinjung, Geawegal, and Wonnarua Nations. We acknowledge our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, partners and stakeholders, and pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging.

The Wests Group Australia (Wests) is a locally owned and operated not-for-profit membership-based organisation. Our vision is to be our members third place, creating personalised experiences that engage, entertain, and inspire. We develop and foster Rugby League as our prime sporting focus, followed by other sports, and support community projects. We will strive to maintain our social licence by being an engaged regional leader and good corporate citizen.

Our mission is to bring pride, respect, and success to our region through our commitment to members, rugby league, community, and sporting excellence

WESTS CITY/NEX

WESTS CARDIFF

WESTS NELSON BAY

NEW LAMBTON BOWLING CLUB

WESTS MAYFIELD

WESTS NEW LAMBTON

BALANCE MAYFIELD

Hospitality, leisure, health, sport and community are the core of who we are

The Wests Group Australia is the leading provider of entertainment, accommodation, dining, and fitness facilities across the region. Our group proudly offers six registered clubs, including Wests New Lambton and Wests New Lambton Bowling Club, Wests Mayfield, Wests City, Wests Nelson Bay, and Wests Cardiff.

We’re thrilled to announce that our new fitness concept, BNKR Co Cardiff, is opening soon to complement our already exceptional fitness offerings. With our strong local presence, including the renowned Balance Collective with three sites, we’re dedicated to helping our members achieve their health goals.

In addition, our luxurious Executive and Gateway hotels in Newcastle and The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens offer a range of accommodation options. For conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment, NEX, located in the heart of Newcastle city, is a premium space.

We’re proud to own the Newcastle Knights Pty Ltd, an integral part of our community, and we’re committed to supporting their success both on and off the field. For over six decades, Wests Group has been a cornerstone of the local communities we serve, providing substantial financial and in-kind support to schools, sporting teams, and charities.

THE EXECUTIVE NEW LAMBTON

THE GATEWAY MAYFIELD

THE ANCHORAGE HOTEL & SPA PORT STEPHENS

SUSTAINABILITY

PRESERVING OUR FUTURE

Wests is committed to sustainability, demonstrated by our significant milestones in reducing waste and conserving resources.

319,740 Plastic straws saved from landfill

194,000 Aluminium cans recycled

182,000 Bottles recycled

26,280 KG

of paper not going to landfill due to electric hand dryers in bathrooms

219,000 Single use plastic containers saved from landfill

1,460 Recyclable printer cartridges are used across the group

6,643 KG of paper no longer going to landfill as our menus are upgraded into digital systems

876,000 Litres of water saved by water-saving taps in bathrooms

420,000 of cardboard recycled

Wests magazines now sent digitally as e-newsletters

12,900 KG

54,080 Litres of cooking oil sent for recycling

186,000 Cards saved from landfill as membership cards go digital to save on plastic. Membership forms now digital saving 780kg of paper to landfill DIGITAL REPORT

We’ve gone digital on distributing this report

The Wests Group has had an exciting year with the launch of the Wests Rewards app. This app has revolutionised the way members engage with our club services, offering more convenience, rewards, and benefits than ever before.

With the Wests Rewards app, members can now access their membership card directly from their phone. This means faster and more convenient access to our venues and services, with no need to worry about forgetting or misplacing a physical card. It also means we can save on plastic card production and distribution, which aligns with our commitment to sustainability.

The app also offers a range of benefits, including exclusive discounts on food and beverages, as well as the ability to earn points for every dollar spent. Members can track their points and redeem them for rewards such as gift cards and discounted meals.

WESTS REWARDS APP REVOLUTIONISING MEMBER ENGAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

Another exciting feature of the app is its personalised recommendations. Members receive suggestions for events, promotions, and services that may be of interest to them, making it easier to discover new experiences and get the most out of their membership.

Over the past year, we have seen a significant increase in the number of members using the app. The app has become a valuable tool for our members, offering greater convenience, rewards, and benefits.

The Wests Rewards app has also supported our endeavours to offer more value, and benefits to our members, while also contributing

to our commitment to sustainability. We look forward to continuing to innovate and enhance our services in the years to come.

TO LEARN MORE

KNIGHTS ON THE MOVE

The Wests Group’s investment of over $23 million has made it possible for the Newcastle Knights to relocate to their brand-new, state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence at Broadmeadow. This investment is expected to surpass $30 million when completed, making it one of the most significant sporting infrastructure projects in the region.

The high-performance training base for elite men and women will be the home ground for the next generation of Knights stars, and a facility the entire community can call home.

Jointly funded by the NSW Government and the Wests Group Australia, the facility will be managed and maintained by the Wests Group Australia at a cost of $1.2m per year. All commercial investments generated by the facility will be reinvested into the funding of facilities for ongoing community use.

ATHLETE GYM

Large enough to accommodate full squad training at one time, the Centre of Excellence athlete gym features dedicated weights facilities, a sprinting track, full-size wrestling room, and bi-fold doors to allow for indoor/outdoor use.

ATHLETE ROOMS

Player-focused facilities at the Centre of Excellence include identical male and female change rooms, a 25-meter lap pool with hot and cold plunge pools, a dedicated player lounge and separate dining area, and a fully equipped physiotherapy clinic.

Since the Club’s inception in 1988, the Newcastle Knights have been a nursery for rugby league talent throughout the region.

The Knights proudly provide a pathway from juniors through to the NRL and NRLW. The likes of Paul Harragon, Andrew and Matthew Johns, Danny Buderus and Jesse Southwell have all come through the Pathways ranks to achieve top accolades in the game.

With our reach extending from Gosford to the Queensland border, young men and women can train in world-class facilities and build their game under the tutelage of elite coaching staff to reach their potential.

The Knights field teams in major competitions including the Knock-On-Effect NSW Cup, Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership and Jersey Flegg Cup (Men’s Under 21’s), as well as the UNE SG Ball Cup (Men’s Under 19’s), Harvey Norman Tarsha Gale Cup (Women’s Under 19’s) and UNE Harold Matthews Cup (Men’s Under 17’s).

Make sure to keep your eye out for our Pathways games as the next generation of NRL and NRLW stars are developed.

PATHWAYS

THE WESTS GROUP HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PATHWAYS AND JUNIOR PROGRAMS FOR MALE AND FEMALE PLAYERS. THIS INVESTMENT TOTALS $2,964,000 ANNUALLY.

NRLW 2022 PREMIERS

In 2022, the Newcastle Knights made history by fielding the Club’s first elite women’s side in the rescheduled 2021 NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership (NRLW) competition. Only a season later, the squad went from last on the ladder to premiership glory following a 32-12 Grand Final victory over the Parramatta Eels at Accor Stadium.

Ronald Griffiths was appointed NRLW Head Coach for the 2022 campaign and began by strengthening the squad, signing star additions Millie Boyle, Tamika Upton, Hannah and Jesse Southwell, in addition to a host of homegrown talent moving back to the Club.

Expectations were high after the team kicked off the new season, defeating three-time premiers the Brisbane Broncos 32-14 on a history-making night at McDonald Jones Stadium. 17-year-old Jesse Southwell stole the headlines with a woman-of-the-match display, becoming the youngest try-scorer in NRLW history as the team scored its first ever win.

Further wins came against the Gold Coast Titans, Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra Dragons, seeing the Knights finish the regular season in second, qualifying for a first ever Finals series in the elite women’s competition. After defeating the Dragons in the Semi-Final 30-6, the stage was set for rugby league’s biggest day, where the Knights would take on the Eels for the Premiership trophy in front of a record 42,921 people.

The Eels crossed first in the Grand Final, before Newcastle showcased their trademark resilience and determination to take the lead with three quickfire tries to Kiana Takairangi, Emmanita Paki and Romy Teitzel before half-time. Tamika Upton

produced her world-class speed and skill for the Knights midway through the second half before the Eels narrowed the deficit through a try to Simaima Taufa.

However, the Knights weren’t to be denied their own slice of history, capping off a remarkable match with three late tries.

Takairangi crossed for her second while Jesse Southwell and Yasmin Clydsdale brought the house down with a try each on the stroke of full-time.

Co-Captains Millie Boyle and Hannah Southwell lifted the trophy alongside their teammates, with the NRLW title just the third piece of elite level silverware in club history. The Newcastle community rallied behind the side showing their support in numbers at games and on social media. For the first time in the Club’s history, young girls from across the region could aspire to reach the top level of the game and follow their dreams inspired by the actions of the 2022 Premiers.

The squad returned to Newcastle to continue the celebrations with thousands of supporters turning out at Civic Hall to welcome home their team. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes awarded the team the Key to the City following their incredible triumph.

The 2022 NRLW side will forever be etched in Newcastle folklore; our first NRLW Premiership-winning team.

Long-time Rugby League patron, Geoff Coburn, was formally appointed as President of Western Suburbs (N’cle) Leagues Club Ltd in June 2022, succeeding Owen Kilpatrick, who retired after contributing 52 years of service on the Board. Kilpatrick held the Chair for sixteen years, driving the organisation through its most pivotal years in the 61-year history of the Wests Group.

Born and bred in Newcastle, Geoff Coburn has had a long association with Wests. From early days in his football career playing for Wests Rosellas he went onto playing grade in the 1970s and ‘80s, before turning to coaching both junior and grade teams in the 1990s. Serving on the Wests Rugby League Football Committee for several years, Coburn was awarded Life Membership of Wests.

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

He first joined the Wests Board when a casual vacancy arose in 1992 when the Board at the time offered him the opportunity, then was elected uncontested at the following AGM, and has since served 30 years with the Group.

Together with the Board of Directors, Coburn would like to see significant growth of the Wests and Knights membership base by reaching out into regional areas, as well as the Club further embracing technology and using innovation to improve the member experience. “But what’s critical for me is that the Wests Group facilities will continue to be a point of contact and social connection for members of the community promoting health and resilience. Importantly, West provides a safe, respectful social setting for elderly members of our community offering a range of events and activities.” commented Coburn.

WESTS WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Wests Group is proud to announce the appointment of two exceptional individuals to its Board of Directors: Tony Price and Samantha Poolman. Both bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for their respective sports, business, and community leadership.

Tony Price was appointed as a Director of Western Suburbs (N’cle) Leagues Club Ltd in October 2022, and his appointment complements the Board’s skills and experience. With a strong background in banking, successful entrepreneurship in the IT industry, and a passion for Rugby League, Tony will be a great addition to the team with his strong financial and business acumen.

Samantha Poolman, a former elite netballer, and community leader, was named as a Board Member of the Wests Group Australia in March 2023, filling the significant gap left by Owen Kilpatrick’s retirement. Poolman’s appointment reflects the Wests Group’s ongoing commitment to supporting local talent and promoting healthy, active lifestyles in the region. With her extensive experience as an elite athlete, Board member, and community leader, Poolman will bring a fresh perspective and valuable insights to the Board, especially in women’s sport and grassroots development.

Geoff Coburn, President of the Wests Group, expressed his excitement for both Tony and Samantha’s appointments and their contribution to the Board. Coburn acknowledges Tony’s vast knowledge of the business world and Rugby League and Samantha’s extensive experience as an elite netballer and community leader, which he believes will benefit the Wests Group in numerous areas, particularly in grassroots and women’s sport.

Philip Gardner, CEO of The Wests Group, comments, “We are thrilled to have Tony and Sam join our Board of Directors. Their passion for their respective sports, extensive experience, and well-rounded skill sets will be instrumental in steering the region’s largest Club group into the future.

The Wests Group Australia welcomes Tony Price and Samantha Poolman to its Board of Directors and looks forward to their contribution to the Group’s continued growth and success in the future.

SAM POOLMAN

TONY PRICE

Unleash your inner athlete and push your limits like never before at Bnkr Co, our latest fitness concept opening on June 1 at Wests Cardiff. Featuring seven zones, our high-energy functional team fitness training will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Join the Bnkr community and choose from three sessions: Power Up for arms, shoulders, and core,

Bnkr Down for glutes, quads, and calves, or Fit

Fusion for a full-body workout. Let our seasoned coaches teach, motivate, and guide you to a new level of fitness in this illuminating new space.

Cardiff Brewery, a new concept venue located within Wests Cardiff opened in December 2022. The small batch craft brewery with its custom built fermentation vessels has added a unique twist to the venue, each element bringing the history of Cardiff to life, but adding a cool modern vibe to the Club. With wide open spaces and both indoor and outdoor seating, pool tables, darts and a games room the space is open to members and guests.

CARDIFF BREWERY A CRAFT CONCEPT

BUNKER DOWN, LEVEL UP

POOLSIDE CABANAS LAND AT THE ANCHORAGE

The Anchorage Port Stephens, with its Hamptons inspired seaside luxe vibe, has recently added a new Poolside Bar area to add an extra level of service for our guests, serving a full bar drinks offering as well as a food menu. The raised deck that wraps the bar provides a relaxed area for guests to chill out while taking in breathtaking views over the marina. Lounge in the comfort and privacy of the new poolside cabanas, a luxurious new addition to the pool deck, complete with sheer privacy curtains.

HEAD OUTDOORS AT NEW LAMBTON

The much anticipated outdoor dining space has opened as part of the refurbishment of Wests New Lambton. Members and guests can enjoy the open spaces while being able to access the ground floor dining precinct and the new kids’ Treehouse PlayZone.

THE EXECUTIVE GETS A FACELIFT

The Executive, Newcastle has recently undergone a renovation with the hotel’s common areas, breakfast and dining areas together, with our superior rooms, receiving a makeover. This follows the refurbishment of the hotel lobby/reception area and façade upgrade.

OUR PEOPLE OUR FOUNDATION

A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE

Wests is one of the largest employers in the region, providing employment opportunities to 935 people as of January 31, 2023. The organisation is committed to promoting equal opportunities and inclusion of all community groups, including Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, those who speak English as a second language, those with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and those with carer’s responsibilities.

LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT AT WESTS

Wests has a strong focus on professional development and learning opportunities for our employees. In 2022, our employees enjoyed more than 7,000 hours in learning and development across the organisation. 97 employees commenced their Certificate 3 in Hospitality, while 62 employees attained a qualification in Mental Health First Aid. Additionally, 31 employees completed or are currently enrolled in the Wests Leadership Development Program.

935 LOCAL JOBS

with 56% female representation

NEW 18-WEEK

Paid Parental Leave scheme

7,024 Staff enjoyed

hours of learning and development

DAYS

NEWCASTLE PRIDE FESTIVAL

RECOGNISING EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE

In December 2022, Wests hosted the annual Wests Values Awards event, recognising employees who exemplified the organisation’s values in the categories of Customer Service, People & Safety, Innovation & Change, Business Growth, and Community.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Wests is committed to supporting community initiatives and charitable causes. In 2022, Wests employees supported Ronald McDonald House, Newcastle Pride, and Variety Australia through paid Community Care Leave. The organisation also introduced a new Paid Wellbeing Leave initiative, providing employees with five paid Wellbeing days per year. In addition, Wests introduced an 18-week Paid Parental Leave scheme and a 12-month Superannuation Top-Up scheme in June 2022.

GIVING BACK THROUGH VOLUNTEERING

Wests employees volunteer their time to support community events and charitable initiatives. The organisation sponsored the Newcastle Pride Festival in 2022 and supported the 16 Days of Activism campaign to end violence against women and children through local charity NOVA.

In just one year, we invested in the region’s social services, schools, sports groups, and communities.

OVER $2MILLION

ROBERT DARCY

SAM POOLMAN

JOHN CAMPION

GEOFF COBURN

TONY PRICE

WAYNE HORE KATIE BRASSIL

our officers

COMMUNITY PURPOSE IS OUR DRIVING FORCE

As a member-based organisation, community is at the heart of all we do. In appreciation of the people that support our venues, services and the nib Newcastle Knights, we proudly commit to meaningful social investments that help sustain positive, thriving communities throughout our region.

In the twelve months to January 31, 2023, our financial and in-kind social investment exceeded $2 million, a significant and far-reaching contribution to the region’s social services, schools, sporting groups and community organisations. We are immensely privileged to be partnering with organisations that share our social priorities and our vision for the region, and we look forward to realising the possibilities ahead.

The Wests Group Board oversees four community giving streams: The West Knights Foundation (WKF), ClubGRANTS, Our Team Our Community, and Our People Our Community.

The WKF is responsible for advancing health and social outcomes, which includes the delivery of Knight Strong, a preventative health program in partnership with Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS). ClubGRANTS funds community organisations and projects through funding from registered clubs. Our Team Our Community includes game day fundraising, player appearances, cause profiling, and club-led education programs. Finally, Our People Our Community encompasses the group employee volunteering program.

The Wests Group Board is responsible for determining and driving support for these community giving streams. They take their responsibility to support the community seriously and are committed to making a positive social impact at the heart of everything they do. Through careful consideration and evaluation, they identify the areas where they can make the greatest difference and work hard to ensure that their resources are deployed in the most effective way possible.

Together, these giving streams enable the Wests Group to make a positive social impact that benefits the community both now and in the future.

WESTS KNIGHTS FOUNDATION

GROUP BOARD

SUPPORTING NEW BEGINNINGS

The Wests Knights Foundation is proud to partner with progressive community housing provider, Housing Plus, to support the construction of purpose-built accommodation for women and children escaping domestic violence. The Foundation has committed a significant initial investment of $300,000 which will be dedicated to the development of two properties in the Hunter region.

The properties will adopt the Core and Cluster design model, the gold standard in supported crisis accommodation. The model moves

PLAYERS AND FANS UNITE FOR FLOOD AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

In a year that commenced with the eastern states’ worst recorded flooding disaster, we were compelled to drive public support for those whose lives were instantly and irreparably impacted.

On Sunday March 20, 2022, our home game against Wests Tigers became so much more than a game of footy, it was an opportunity for the Newcastle Knights and our fans to extend our solidarity and support to

away from refuge style communal living, instead providing women and their children the privacy and protection of independent, fully self-contained units. The units are clustered within the development to facilitate state-of-the-art security, while core social services are available on site to ensure families receive the care they need as they journey through trauma towards recovery.

We are excited to be frontiering this new standard of care in the Hunter and look forward to partnering with Housing Plus and specialist local service providers to ease the burden and impact of domestic and family violence.

our northern neighbours in need of flood relief.

The Knights pledged $5 for every person that passed through the gates for the round two clash and the devoted fans didn’t disappoint, with more than 23,000 filing into McDonald Jones Stadium.

$116,000

in total was donated to the Red Cross NSW and QLD Flood Appeal.

The Wests Knights Foundation (WKF) is charged with advancing health and social outcomes throughout our footprint.

OUR COMMITMENT TO NOURISHING THE COMMUNITY

Food insecurity is an issue impacting many and so often the most vulnerable in our community live without nourishing meals. Soul Café located in the heart of Newcastle responds to this issue every day, providing quality, home cooked meals and a welcoming space for people to come together and feel supported.

Last August The Wests Group ClubGRANTS program provided Soul Café an annual funding injection of $45,000 to help sustain the service, keeping doors open and food on this all-important communal table.

SEE HOW WE’RE HELPING TO NOURISH OUR COMMUNITY

Focused on better health outcomes forFirst Nations communities

FEEL STRONG BE STRONG LIVE KNIGHT STRONG

In March 2022, the Wests Knights Foundation launched Knight Strong, a preventative health program delivered in partnership with Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS). Focused on better health outcomes for First Nations communities, the program leverages the voice and influence of the Newcastle Knights to shine a spotlight on the importance of annual health checks.

The program was piloted in conjunction with the Awabakal Aboriginal Medical Service over three months (March–June 2022) and the results were overwhelmingly positive with a 31% increase in the number of people completing their annual health check during this time.

Through our work with the team at Awabakal AMS we have developed a deep appreciation for the vital role specialist Aboriginal medical teams play; not just in supporting personal health but in fostering wide scale social wellness.

We remain committed to expanding the Knight Strong program throughout our footprint to support AMS teams as they pursue early intervention healthcare solutions and community wide cultural connections.

club grants WESTS GROUP AUSTRALIA

The Wests Group Australia ClubGRANTS program has a proud history of funding a range of social initiatives. In 2022 our ClubGRANTS funding supported 71 local services and programs, contributing over $1.5 million directly to our footprint communities, a critical funding injection to local sport, community groups, veterans’ programs and social services.

With six Wests Group Club sites throughout the region, our ClubGRANTS funding is extended to recipient organisations throughout Lake Macquarie, Greater Newcastle and Port Stephens.

The Wests Group’s ClubGRANTS donation in 2022 was a total of including both cash and in-kind contributions. This will go a long way in supporting community initiatives and improving the lives of those in need.

$1,506,535

GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY

2022 BENEFICIARIES

Anna Bay Public School

Aspect

Calvary Mater

Cardiff Cougars RLFC

Central Newcastle Water Polo Club

Cerebral Palsy Alliance

Charlestown Caring Group

Copsy Inc – Youth Mental Health

Crime Support Agency

Glendale Gorillas

Harry Meyn Foundation

Humour Foundation JHH

Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation

Hunter Childrens Research

Hunter Junior Rugby

Hunter Medical Research

Hunter Melanoma

Hunter Surf Lifesaving

Hunter Workers Union

Jenny’s Place

Lambton High School

Life Education

Lifeline

Lifeshapers (Soul Café)

Lord Taverners Cricket

Maritime Union

Mark Hughes Foundation

McGrath Foundation

Nelson Bay Diggers – Boot Scooting

– Bowls Club

– Bridge Club

– Craft Club

– Cricket Club

– Euchre Club – Swim Club

Nelson Bay Croquet Club

Nelson Bay Rock n Rollers

Nelson Bay RSL Sub Club

New Lambton Bowling Club

New Lambton Women’s Bowls

New Lambton Amateur Football Club

Newcastle Parkinsons Support Group

Norths Hockey

Nova for Women

OzHarvest

Port Stephens Community Arts Centre Inc

Port Stephens Community Wood Workers Inc

Port Stephens Council – Mayoral Scholarship

Port Stephens Division of Legacy

Port Stephens Women’s Crisis & Support Group Inc

Ronald McDonald House

RUOK

Salvation Army

Starlight Childrens

Stockton Junior Rugby

Tighes Hills Public School

Tomaree Community Hospital

Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre

Game Changer

Walgara Ngurra Moving On

Wallsend Maryland JRLFC

Wallsend Maryland RLFC

Warners Bay Netball Club

Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Wests Cardiff Indoor Games

Wests Cardiff Ladies Darts

Wests Cricket Club

Wests Golf Club

Wests Jnr Cricket Club

Wests Netball Club

Wests Schoolboys RLFC

IN 2022 OUR CLUBGRANTS FUNDING SUPPORTED 71 LOCAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS, CONTRIBUTING OVER $1.5 MILLION DIRECTLY TO OUR FOOTPRINT COMMUNITIES*

*The term “Wests footprint communities” refers to the geographical areas where The Wests Group Australia has a presence and operates its venues and services. The Group’s footprint extends from Wyong Shire and the City of Gosford, which are in the Central Coast region of New South Wales, all the way to Coffs Harbour and out as far west as the Upper Hunter and New England regions. This includes a diverse range of communities, both urban and regional, that are serviced by The Wests Group Australia’s venues and services. The Group’s footprint communities are spread across multiple local government areas, including the Central Coast, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Cessnock, Muswellbrook, Singleton, Tamworth, Armidale, and Mid-Coast Councils, among others. Through its venues and services, The Wests Group Australia plays an important role in supporting these communities and providing social, recreational, and cultural opportunities for their residents. 25 mywests.com.au

CREATING BRIGHTER FUTURES

The Wests Group ClubGRANTS program has long supported Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA) in delivering much needed therapy equipment for the Stuart Centre in Newcastle, as well as CPA’s residential services throughout the region.

Since 2018 this ClubGRANTS contribution has amounted to more than $135,000 and has included the refurbishment of a safe space playground and bike track at the Stuart Centre. The play equipment at the Centre is central to the therapy sessions delivered each day, supporting improved life outcomes for children living with cerebral palsy.

SEE THIS SPACE IN ACTION

PARTNERING WITH LOCAL HEROES

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is celebrated across our region for the critical care they deliver to people experiencing medical emergencies.

The West Group ClubGRANTS program is proud to support the work of the expert crew that deliver this care, along with the ground crew that ensure the choppers are at the ready to respond to people in need.

In recent years the Wests Group ClubGRANTS program has committed over $50,000 to support the purchase of a range of equipment designed to keep the crew and choppers safe ahead of every lifesaving flight.

WATCH LOCAL HEROES IN ACTION

CREATING A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

In 2022 The Wests Group ClubGRANTS program allocated $82,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities for the upgrade and refurbishment of the accommodation units at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital site.

This Ronald McDonald House service accommodates families from all areas of Northern NSW and plays a vital role in keeping families connected and supported while children are receiving medical treatment at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital.

WATCH HOW WE SUPPORT FAMILIES IN NEED

our team our community

THE nib NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS HAVE A DEEP CONNECTION TO THE COMMUNITY.

Over many years, the club’s community program has actively contributed to a range of not-for-profit organisations through game day fundraising, player appearances, cause profiling and club led education programs.

We would like to acknowledge and thank our sponsors for their support. Without their backing, we would not be able to make such a positive impact on our communities. We are grateful for the support of our sponsors, who share our commitment to investing in our team and our community.

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

PLATINUM PARTNERS

NRLW PARTNERS

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

SHAPING UP AND SHOWING UP

Throughout the 2022 NRL and NRLW competitions, our Knights visited a range of community services and events, effectively contributing 828 player appearance hours to community causes.

As a club we are committed not just to creating high performance athletes but to shaping high quality humans and our team is incredibly fortunate to use their profile and voice to support, encourage and empower the people and organisations that help our communities flourish.

While the Covid-19 virus continued to impact our player engagement opportunities at various times throughout the year, our regular visits to local schools, the John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House and Soul Café provided more reason to celebrate the joy of connectedness and led to wider smiles on every occasion.

CHARITY PARTNERS

The Newcastle Knights have a long-standing commitment to the local community and have established partnerships with local organisations to help support and enrich the lives of people in the region. We are proud to work alongside our community partners, whose support has been instrumental in enabling us to make a positive impact on the community.

west2022rosellasseason

AS PROUD SPONSORS OF THE WESTERN SUBURBS RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL CLUB (WSRLFC), WE ARE THRILLED TO REFLECT ON THE TREMENDOUS SUCCESS OF THE ROSELLAS’ 2022 SEASON. WITH A RICH HISTORY AND A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE, THE ROSELLAS HAVE ONCE AGAIN SHOWCASED THEIR TALENT, DETERMINATION, AND RESILIENCE.

Founded in 1910, the WSRLFC has been a stalwart in the Newcastle Rugby League competition. With 23 first-grade premiership titles to their name, the Rosellas have proven their mettle time and time again. Furthermore, the club has nurtured 11 international representatives, highlighting their dedication to developing top-tier talent.

The 2022 season was a testament to the Rosellas’ commitment to success. With three out of four teams participating in the grand finals, the Rosellas demonstrated their desire and unwavering dedication to the sport. We were particularly delighted by the major premiership victories in the Women’s Tackle and Under 19’s competitions, as these achievements exemplified the talent and determination of the teams.

We firmly believe in the importance of junior development. The WSRLFC has made significant strides in this area, with their “Emerging Rosella” program nurturing the skills and potential of young players. We are thrilled to see the results of these efforts in the notable development of local junior players and the overall success of the club.

The Rosellas’ impressive record of grand final victories cannot be overlooked. Their triumphs in 23 first grade grand finals have become an indelible part of the club’s history. The Wests Group takes great pride in supporting a team that consistently showcases the spirit and determination that we hold in high regard.

As sponsors, we recognise the exceptional talent that has emerged from the Rosellas. Players like Allan Buman, John Cootes, and Dennis Ward, who have represented Australia, are a testament to the club’s ability to foster top-tier athletes. Additionally, the WSRLFC has cultivated a reputation as a

breeding ground for talent, with seven other players proudly representing their country.

We extend gratitude to the coaches, support staff, and committee members for their integral role in the Rosellas’ success. Looking ahead, the Wests Group remains committed to supporting WSRLFC, congratulating new life members Lachlan Buller and Michael Hendry, and honouring Anthony Ingram as Clubman of 2022.

As proud sponsors, we embrace WSRLFC’s rich history and eagerly anticipate future triumphs. The Wests Group stands by the Rosellas as they strive for excellence on and off the field.

our people our community

IN 2022 WESTS GROUP INTRODUCED THE COMMUNITY CARE PROGRAM, AN EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEERING INITIATIVE THAT PROVIDES OUR PEOPLE WITH ONE DAY OF PAID VOLUNTEERING LEAVE ANNUALLY.

Since launching the program, team members from across the group have volunteered their time to community causes ranging from preparing meals for the families at Ronald McDonald House, wrapping gifts for children attending the Variety Christmas party and participating in the Newcastle Pride Festival.

We look forward to growing this program internally in 2023 and to providing more Wests Group team members the opportunity to pursue their social purpose.

Stay up to date with how your Wests membership helps support the local community by visiting MYWESTS.COM.AU/COMMUNITY