Mai-Wel and Maitland Blacks Charity Day raises just shy of $12k for Hunter community
A sold-out Spin the Wheel, three rounds of the 100 Club and a spirited jersey auction helped Mai-Wel raise almost $12,000 at the Maitland Blacks Charity Day held at Marcellin Park in Lorn on Saturday 23 May, 2026.
The fundraising event coincided with Round 6 of the Hunter Rugby competition and drew strong support from the players, families, local businesses and the wider community.
The funds raised will go directly toward supporting the people we work with across the Hunter Region, helping them access employment, build skills and connect with their community.
A partnership built on inclusion and community
Mai-Wel is the Maitland Blacks Rugby Club’s charity partner for the 2026 season, and the day reflected the shared values at the centre of that partnership.
Mai-Wel CEO John Cleary said the event highlighted the power of community partnerships.
“To see the community come together in such a meaningful way was incredibly special. The energy throughout the day reflected what can happen when communities back inclusion and opportunity.” Mr Cleary said.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Maitland Blacks Rugby Club, the players who ran out in the jerseys showcasing Mai-Wel indigenous artwork, and everyone who got behind the success of the day.” He continued.
Fundraising that draws a crowd
Mai-Wel Senior Manager – Engagement, Belinda McNab, said the response from the community exceeded expectations. “We sold every single Spin the Wheel prize, the 100 Club had huge support and the jersey auction created plenty of excitement throughout the afternoon,” Ms McNab said.
“To raise close to $12,000 in a single day is an incredible outcome, and every dollar raised will help support the people we work alongside every day across our region.”
The day also featured a halftime activation involving Mai-Wel participants and Maitland Blacks players, with on-field activities receiving strong support from the crowd.
Supporters who make a real difference
Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and organisations from across the Hunter, the Spin the Wheel prize pool added extra excitement to the day and helped boost funds raised in support of our programs and services.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the supporters from the day including The Bradford Hotel, Woolworths Maitland, Booth Contracting, Maddies of Bolwarra, Dullboy’s Social Co., Hunter Valley Cookie Co, Peachy GreenGrocer, Thrive Scents, 88Custom, Saje Beauty Aesthetics, Beautification, Total Tools Rutherford, Telarah Bowling Club and Maitland Rugby Club.
As the 2026 season continues, the partnership between Mai-Wel and the Maitland Blacks will keep creating opportunities to connect community spirit with meaningful impact.
