AUSSIE TEEN DONATES RUGBY EQUIPTMENT TO WANDERERS RUFC U20’s
In an inspiring act of generosity, a young Australian named Xanthia Hughes has made a significant contribution to the Wanderers U20 rugby team in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Her donation of much-needed sporting equipment has brought new opportunities and hope to the team, fostering their development both on and off the field.
This heart-warming story began in early 2024 when Xanthia launched an initiative to support communities in PNG by collecting essential sports items.
Working alongside her mother, Belinda Hughes, who is based in PNG as the Executive Director of Legal for the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Xanthia began by reaching out to local Australian families for donations of second-hand shoes. The response was overwhelming, with over 500 pairs of shoes collected, cleaned, and shipped to PNG.
Once the items arrived, they were distributed to local netball clubs and included netball balls, kits, and other equipment aimed at enhancing training resources. However, Xanthia’s mission didn’t stop there.
During her visit to PNG, Xanthia attended a rugby match with her mother to support a friend, Florence Kamburi’s son. This event introduced her to Aloysius Kevin, the U20 Head Coach for the Wanderers Rugby Union Club, and sparked a meaningful connection with the community. Discussions with Mr. Kevin and other community leaders, including Melissa and Sarah, shed light on the challenges local clubs face due to limited resources.
Inspired by their stories, Xanthia expanded her initiative to include rugby equipment. She organized a sausage sizzle fundraiser in Australia and collaborated with local sports clubs, such as the Rouse Hill Rams and Kellyville Bush Rams, to collect items like rugby boots, balls, hurdles, training gear, and additional netball supplies.
The donation was officially presented to the Wanderers U20 team manager, Margaret Taule, marking a significant milestone in Xanthia’s project. Coach Kevin expressed his gratitude, saying, “Having more items such as footballs will greatly improve our athletes’ training and performance.”
Xanthia’s efforts have not only provided tangible resources to PNG athletes but also strengthened the bond between Australian and PNG communities. Her initiative demonstrates the power of compassion and teamwork, inspiring others to make a difference.
The club extended heartfelt thanks to Xanthia and her mother, Belinda, for their extraordinary generosity. This act of kindness is a true blessing for the young athletes of the Wanderers U20 team, paving the way for brighter futures.
As Xanthia reflected on her journey, she said, “I am incredibly grateful for the overwhelming generosity of everyone who contributed. Thank you for helping bring this vision to life and for empowering the next generation of athletes in PNG.”
This incredible story reminds us all of the positive change that can come from selflessness and a desire to uplift others.
Picture: Supplied
