19 March, 2024
I was pleased to attend the Sportsman's Long Lunch, held on 15 March at the Camden Civic Centre and organised by the Picton Magpies Old Boys. The joyous social event serves as the main annual fundraiser, with proceeds raised contributing towards planning and improvements at the Victoria Park playing fields in Wollondilly. Additional funds raised are distributed to the junior and senior clubs and wider community, benefiting many young sportspeople. Beyond just the current members of the Picton Magpies Rugby League Football Club, the Picton Magpies Old Boys—also known as "The Mob"—actively support ex‑players who have fallen on hard times and assist during any local community emergencies. The Mob provide the social connections that strengthen the community, enabling players to take the sense of inclusivity beyond the playing field and their sporting years into all aspects of their lives. It was only a few years ago that we had a plan to stop any advertisements on club land. Thanks to clever thinking, an alteration to the local environment plan and some leadership has ensured that the club survives today.