The tireless work of volunteers, officials and players has been celebrated at the 2026 Northern Territory Community Awards presented by Westpac.
Community leaders, coaches and volunteers have been recognised for their commitment to the game as rugby league continues to grow across the Top End.
The ceremony at Government House in Darwin recognised the award recipients and the hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time to the sport each week.
Litchfield Bears president Em Burkitt was named the Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding commitment, leadership and tireless contribution to the game.
Her dedication to the club has helped the Bears develop one of the strongest junior bases in the NT and achieve sustained growth in player numbers.
Alice Springs Brothers has been recognised as the Community Rugby League Club of the Year after playing a key role in continuing to grow participation throughout Central Australia.
Darwin Brothers’ Ronnie Mareko has been named the Community Coach of the Year for his work growing one of the NT's most successful women's teams.
The Indigenous Community Award went to Anthony Smith of the Palmerston Raiders while the club also won the Women in League Award through Marie Greenwood.
The Raiders claimed a third award with Claire Corbett named the Young Person of the Year.
Finally, Ricky Liddle won the Community Match Official of the Year award.
NRL NT general manager Tony Crowe said it was a great opportunity to recognise all volunteers across the rugby league community.
"Tonight isn’t just about recognising achievement, it’s about recognising service," Crowe said after the ceremony. "It’s about celebrating community. And it’s about saying thank you to the people who make rugby league possible across the Northern Territory.
"They say it takes a village to raise a child. In rugby league, it takes a community to build a club.
"Every player who takes the field, every child who pulls on a jersey and every family who enjoys a Saturday at rugby league benefits from someone who simply chose to volunteer.
"To progress from being recognised as the Northern Territory recipient to representing our community on the national stage is a tremendous honour.
“We are incredibly proud of each of our award winners and wish them every success in the 2026 Westpac National Community Awards."
