The long-standing Googars club has hosted the knockout for a large number of years and has attracted 14 teams for an extraordinary day of rugby league and family interaction.

Heading the list will be the Tom and Sue Gordon Memorial Team, named in honour of the Gordon family that has been part and parcel of the Googars club.

Despite the Sharks having an indifferent side in the NRL this year, Kelly and Gordon were two of the leading lights. The knockout style of football will suit both backs. Kelly, a former NSW under-18s half-back is a cousin of superstar Greg Inglis and grew up in Bowraville.

Gordon was born in Brewarrina and is as quick as they come for a winger, being known to have run an Olympic qualifying time for the 100 metres.

Walgett’s George Rose, the giant Manly Sea Eagles impact prop, is also expected to play with his old home town.

Dubbo CYMS utility back, Kaine Ashby, a grandson of the late Tom and Sue Gordon, is part of the organising committee of the knockout, along with Thomas, Darren and Seth Toomey.

“Saturday is more than just a rugby league knockout, it’s a community event,” Ashby said.

“There will be lots of family people there to see the games but also coming together for a family celebration and to commemorate the end of NAIDOC Week.

“There is a small entry fee of $5 per person and we will be providing the opportunity for people to come along and enjoy an alcohol and drug free day for all members of the family, including the kids and elders.

“There will be a jumping castle and face painting for the kids, as well as a special room for the elders.

“On the football field, we’ve filled 14 of our 16 places in the draw with teams entered from Moree, Walgett, Bathurst, Coonamble, Wellington, Bourke, Lightning Ridge, Peak Hill and a couple of memorial teams.

“We’re especially pleased to have some of the NRL stars coming up to play with Isaac Gordon and Albert Kelly and George Rose - three that we know of.”

Creative players such as Ashby, Claude Gordon and Rob Lake will also be playing.