The Sarina Junior Rugby League Club is rebuilding after a devastating fire tore through their equipment shed at the Sarina Showgrounds earlier this year, destroying vital gear and irreplaceable memorabilia.
The fire, which occurred on January 23, 2025, was sparked when the club’s mower caught fire and exploded, severely injuring long-time volunteer Butch. Despite his efforts to contain the flames, the fire spread rapidly, leaving the shed beyond saving.
Built through the dedication of volunteers over the years, the shed was more than just a storage facility. It housed training equipment, home game essentials, and sponsor signage, as well as historical memorabilia from the club’s proud history since its formation in 1968. The loss was a heartbreaking blow to the Sarina Crocs community, who gather at the grounds not only for training and matches but also as a place where friendships are forged and young players develop their skills.
Despite the setback, the Sarina community has rallied to support the club’s recovery. Local businesses and individuals have stepped up with generous donations to help rebuild. One of the first to lend a hand was Ray White Sarina, who contributed $500 through their community cash initiative to help the Crocs get back on track for the upcoming season.
“We’re wishing you guys the best season this year - go Crocs!” Ray White Sarina shared in their message of support.
The recovery effort took a significant step forward on March 7, when the damaged shed was demolished to make way for a new build. Darren Matthews Excavations played a crucial role, donating time and equipment to clear the site. Additional contributions came from Goodies Excavations, Keating Haulage, Raw Metal Corp – Mackay, and Shipping Container Rentals Mackay, who provided a temporary storage solution until the new shed is completed. GSR Hire also assisted with the safe delivery of the container to the club’s grounds.
Grant and Haylee Nicholas from Third Ground have also stepped up to support the club, generously donating much-needed training equipment. Their contribution has been a game-changer as the club works to restock after the fire.
“Your support means the world to us,” the club shared.
“This donation ensures our young players have the tools they need to keep training and rebuilding stronger than ever.”
Sarina State School has also rallied behind the club, hosting a fantastic fundraising event that raised an impressive $1,406.75 for the Sarina Junior League Fire Appeal.
“We’re so grateful for your compassion and commitment to helping our club,” the club shared.
Even clubs from Mackay have stepped up to support Sarina Junior Rugby League in their time of need. Magpies Sporting Club Mackay has pledged to donate $2 from every new and renewed membership throughout March to the club, along with an additional $1,000 to assist in the rebuild.
"Sarina Junior League recently lost everything when a horror fire destroyed their sports shed," Magpies shared.
"We want to help them get their 350+ young players back to playing footy."
Sarina Junior Rugby League has long been a powerhouse for developing young talent, with NRL stars like North Queensland Cowboys' Reuben Cotter emerging from its ranks. In 2024, the club supported over 350 players, and the passion for the game remains as strong as ever despite this recent hardship.
The club remains determined to rebuild, with calls for further community support to help replace lost equipment and fund the new shed. While insurance will cover part of the cost, additional donations—whether financial contributions or volunteer skills—are needed to restore what was lost.
“We’re committed to continuing the proud Crocs story and ensuring our kids have the gear they need to train and compete,” the club said in a statement.
“This will be a long road to recovery, but every bit of support helps.”
Anyone able to contribute—whether through donations or volunteering—can reach out to Gary Dickson at president@sarinajrl.com or Vice President Aimee Korte at vicepresident@sarinajrl.com.
The Sarina Crocs may have lost a shed, but their spirit remains unshaken. With the community’s backing, they are determined to rebuild bigger and stronger for future generations of young players.
Darren Matthews from DMX – Darren Matthews Excavations, who generously donated his time and excavator to help clear the site for Sarina Junior Rugby League’s rebuild
Before and After: The Sarina Junior Rugby League clubhouse, devastated by fire, has now been cleared to make way for a rebuild, thanks to incredible community support
Ray White Sarina proudly supports the Crocs! A $500 community cash donation helps Sarina Junior Rugby League get back on track after their devastating shed fire. Photos supplied
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