Each year, we come together to celebrate what makes Lake Macquarie Rugby Club more than just a footy team — our people. And there was no one more loyal, more passionate, or more rugby-mad than our very own Justin “Justo” Drinkwater.
This annual event is a chance to honour the legacy of a man who truly lived and breathed this club. From his debut in 1964 to his final sideline chats with the 1st Grade boys, Justo never stopped showing up, stepping up, and lifting us up.
💙 Justo’s Legacy in a Tackle Bag:
Player. Coach. President. Selector. Treasurer. Mentor. Mate.
Represented Newcastle and Country Rugby with pride.
Life Member of both Lake Macquarie Rugby Club and the Newcastle & Hunter Rugby Union.
Stepped in to run everything when volunteers were scarce, literally held the Club together.
Named Lake Macquarie Sports Administrator of the Year in 1994.
Even while battling illness, Justo still turned up — home games, committee meetings, and always with a cheeky grin and wise words.
🏉 How We’ll Remember Him:
We’ll raise a glass, tell a few (probably exaggerated) Justo stories, and play a match the way he loved it — hard, fair, and with plenty of banter.
There’ll be a jerseys auction, laughs, a few emotional moments, and the kind of community spirit Justo championed for over 60 years. Whether you’re one of his “young-uns” or just love the game, this is your invitation to celebrate a life that was truly part of the Club's heartbeat.
Let’s honour him the way he lived — with heart, humour, and a love of the game.
Also check out other Sports events in Warners Bay, Meetups in Warners Bay.
