It was a moment that signified how rugby league can matter so little, yet so much.

Carrying a heavy heart, Nathan Thompson carried his twin brother Chris' jersey on to the field for Wellington ahead of their Group 11 qualifying final on Saturday and then helped the Cowboys bring a bit of joy to a town shattered by the car accident that has left one of its favourite sons battling for his life in Westmead Hospital.

The 32-24 result in favour of the emotion-charged Cowboys propelled Wellington into a major semi-final clash with Dubbo CYMS this Saturday, while Macquarie will now face Parkes in an elimination final on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Thompson's brother-in-law Jay Forrester yesterday thanked the community on behalf of the family for the support and well wishes that have flowed since the accident.

"We've been a bit overwhelmed by the support everyone has shown and the kind messages we've received," Forrester said.

"It's still a waiting game, which isn't easy, but there's been a lot of support which has been a big boost for the whole family."