Organised by the Singleton Volunteer Support Group, 300 employees will represent their respective mines and compete in the day-long 10’s tournament at Singleton’s Pirtek Park on October 8. 

This year’s event will see sides divided into four pools with each playing a minimum of two games during the day.

Based on collective points, the teams placed first will advance through to the semi-finals and then onto the decider.

In 2016, the Ashton Wombats, Austar Swamp Rats, Glendell Gladiators, Hunter Valley United Cobras, Liddell Lions, Maules Creek Maulers, Mt Thorley Warkworth Barbarians, Mt Thorley Warkworth Razorbacks, Mt Arthur Meerkats (A), Mt Arthur Meerkats (B), Mt Owen Muddogs, Ravensworth Rhinos, Rix’s Creek Rattlesnakes, Saxonvale Raiders, Wambo Wolves and Werris Creek Wild Cats have their eyes on the prize.

“The charity day raised $50,000 for the rescue helicopter last year,” event organiser Danny Eather said.

“We’re anticipating more than 1000 spectators, family and friends to turn out this time around.

“Off-field entertainment includes food stands, jumping castles, amusement rides and face painting.

“The local business community has once again rallied with APlus Contracting, Pirtek, IEEP Engineered Products, Jennings Print, Workpac and Betts Bowers all major sponsors. 

“More than 70 businesses have backed individual teams to help with their fundraising targets with Coal Services Mines Rescue (First Aid), Group 21 Rugby League Referees Association and Singleton’s Rotary and Lions clubs providing in-kind support and assistance on the day. 

“Every year the rescue helicopter undertakes in excess of 1000 missions, including transporting people from accident scenes, transferring critically-ill patients between hospitals and undertaking search and rescue operations. 

“The Singleton Volunteer Support Group has worked hard for two decades to help raise awareness and funds to make sure this vital community service stays in the air.”