Richmond’s Trent Cotchin gifts Aussie Rules Grand Final tickets to Queensland volunteers
The Richmond Tigers Captain has called two Queensland AFL volunteers to thank them for their contribution to the game. WATCH THE VIDEO
QLD News
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A Queensland couple have been given tickets to the AFL Grand Final for their volunteer efforts at their local club.
After a difficult year for Simon and Maureen Mehaffey, Richmond captain Trent Cotchin called to thank the Mackay couple for their contribution to the game in Queensland.
The pair work as the Bakers Creek Tigers Australian Football Club (AFC) as the groundskeeper and treasurer, with Mr Mehaffey even being awarded a life membership.
But 2020 took an unexpected turn for the couple.
The loss of Ms Mehaffey’s mother during the COVID-19 pandemic meant only 10 people could be at her funeral in New Zealand, with only the closest family allowed by her side.
She became the main supporter for her father throughout the year while continuing to care for her young family until she received a life-threatening injury to her neck playing in the Bakers Creek AFC women’s side.
Ms Mehaffey’s injury meant she will not be joining her husband at the Grand Final in Brisbane as the drive of more than ten hours would be too strenuous on her neck, but he will take a friend.
“It’s too long a drive for me at the moment with my neck injury,” she said.
“Everyone’s in hardship at the moment but we are very grateful for what the club has done for us.”
In his time away from caring for his wife and children, Mr Mehaffey continued his work helping the club.
He has also struggled with his father’s recent cancer diagnosis.