Rugby League One Community Ambassador and former State of Origin, Cronulla and South Sydney champion David Peachey has been appointed to the Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council.
David has been a passionate promoter of opportunity for Indigenous athletes both during and after his playing career and is a leading advocate for the NSW State Government tackling domestic violence program.
“Everyone in Rugby League admires David’s commitment to seeing Indigenous communities and Indigenous athletes reach their true potential,” Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman, Mr John Grant, said today.
“He does some simply fantastic work and has proven a genuine leader on social issues across a national stage.
“David is someone who understands more than anyone the role that Rugby League can play in closing the opportunity gap that exists between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians and will be able to offer important advice to the Council and to the game.”
On learning of his appointment today David said: “It is exciting to be part of a Council that brings together such an impressive group of people and which is so passionate about the game that I love.
“The fact that the Council is recognised as being such an important part of the game says a lot about where Rugby League has come over the years since I started playing.
“I look forward to working with the other Council members to help provide a voice for grassroots Indigenous communities and to help those communities grow through Rugby League.”
The Chair of the Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council, the Hon Linda Burney MP, also welcomed David Peachey’s appointment.
“David has been an inspirational figure for indigenous communities over many years,” Ms Burney said.
“Not only has he played at the highest levels but he has always remained connected to the grassroots and to his community.
“He is a true leader who will bring an important voice to the Council.”
The Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council comprises: The Hon Linda Burney MP (Chair), Katrina Fanning, Preston Campbell, Glen Brennan, Darren Godwell, Stephen Tillett, William ‘Smiley’ Johnstone and David Peachey.
Its role is to provide strategic advice on Indigenous issues in the game to the NRL and the Commission.
