First Ever Dolly’s Dream and VRA round for Junior Spuds

Daniel Hussey (Shanahan’s Livestock) and GJRL President Gina Lockyer with the Guyra’s Senior League Tag team in their Dolly’s Dream jerseys (PIc by Colleen Pearson)

24th Jun 2025

On June 21st, the Guyra Junior Rugby League (GJRL) made history by hosting their first-ever combined VRA and Dolly’s Dream Round, welcoming the Glen Innes Magpies to the Guyra sporting fields for a memorable day of junior rugby league and community spirit.
The initiative, led by GJRL, was a heartfelt show of appreciation to the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) and a commitment to raising awareness around anti-bullying through the Dolly’s Dream Foundation.
“As a junior club, we’re not just about teaching rugby league skills,” said GJRL President Gina Lockyer. “We’re also about instilling respect, kindness, and the importance of supporting one another—both on and off the field.”
The day kicked off at 9:00 AM with spirited games from the under-6, under-7, and under-9 teams. The under-7s especially thrilled the crowd, now able to tackle in competitive play. The under-11s showed strong defense but didn’t clinch a win.
In the league tag division, the Junior League Tag Girls and Intermediate League Tag Girls delivered outstanding performances, both securing convincing wins against the Magpies.
The under-16 boys team, wearing a limited-edition VRA jersey, played with pride and energy, finishing the day with a commanding win.
“The new VRA jerseys have been a source of pride all season, and the kids wore them with real heart this weekend,” Gina added.
GJRL incorporated a Dolly’s Dream round, highlighting the club’s dedication to raising awareness around bullying and mental health support for young people.
A special edition Dolly’s Dream jersey was created for the Senior League Tag Girls, who battled hard in a nail-biting match, narrowly going down 26-24 to the Magpies.
All GJRL players were gifted Dolly’s Dream socks to wear throughout the round. Thank you to our generous sponsors Bald Blair Angus, 3FiveProjects Pty Ltd,
Glenavon Angus, J & H Rural Earthmoving, Simpkins Honey, APL Livestock Guyra/Armidale and West Gippsland Vet Care.
“The support from our community and sponsors has been nothing short of amazing,” Gina said.
“Your kindness didn’t go unnoticed.”
One of the day’s biggest highlights was the arrival of the Shanahans Livestock Transport Dolly’s Dream Kenworth truck and trailers, which drew crowds and admiration alike.
“Having the Dolly truck attend was something we never thought would happen—but thanks to the generosity of Dom Shanahan and the help of John Matthewson, it became a reality,” Gina said. “It was a true showstopper and a powerful reminder of what Dolly’s Dream stands for.”
The truck, freshly cleaned and polished after delivering cattle to Tamworth, was presented in immaculate condition thanks to the team at Glen Artney Truck Wash. Driver Daniel Hussey was hailed as a local legend for his role in supporting both the Shanahan family and Dolly’s Dream.
Local MP Barnaby Joyce was also in attendance, showing his support for the region’s grassroots rugby league and charitable initiatives.
After a full day of footy, families gathered at the Guyra Hotel, where they enjoyed complimentary pizzas donated by the venue, a monster raffle, and auction hosted by Todd from Schute Bell, raising funds well beyond expectations.
The night wrapped up with dancing to Jacko’s Jukebox, and plenty of community celebration.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work our committee, families, and volunteers put in,” said Gina.
“From marking lines to coaching, refereeing, and manning the canteen, and facepainting —every single person helped make this day one to remember.”
“Special thanks to all the photographers and to Bob and Wendy Furze, who tirelessly sold raffle tickets throughout the day.”
“You’ve all done Guyra proud.”

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First Ever Dolly’s Dream and VRA round for Junior Spuds

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