Melbourne Storm & Family of League – Celebrating 15 Years of Partnership in Victoria
Melbourne Storm and the Victorian Committee of the Family of League are proudly celebrating 15 years of partnership, recognising a shared commitment to supporting members of the rugby league community across Victoria.
Storm’s Round 19 clash against the Gold Coast Titans at AAMI Park will shine a spotlight on Family of League and the impact the Foundation has made since establishing its Victorian presence in 2011.
Originally established as Men of League in 2002 by rugby league greats Ron Coote, Jim Hall and Max Brown, Family of League was founded on the values of teamwork, mateship and giving back.
Today, the independent grassroots organisation supports players, administrators, referees, volunteers and their families who are experiencing hardship, while always respecting individual dignity.
From humble beginnings at the New South Wales Leagues Club, Family of League has grown into a network of more than 6,500 members and volunteers.
The Foundation provides financial, social and emotional support, ranging from assistance with surgery, rehabilitation and specialist care to wellbeing visits that help combat social isolation and promote mental health.
Across Australia, 39 volunteer committees in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and the ACT work alongside a small team of staff to deliver support to those who need it most.
While the organisation initially focused on New South Wales and Queensland, expansion into Victoria began in 2011. Melbourne Storm Founder John Ribot brought together key rugby league figures at AAMI Park to discuss establishing a Victorian chapter.
At this meeting, attendees agreed to form a steering committee to explore the opportunity. There was strong enthusiasm and a shared commitment to bringing the vision to life.
Key outcomes included:
- John Ribot outlining the organisation’s purpose and committing to share foundational documents.
- Exploration of initial funding opportunities through Aces Sporting Club in Keysborough.
- Engagement with national leadership for guidance and endorsement.
- Appointment of Peter Foreman as Chair and John Ribot as Patron Formation of the inaugural steering committee, including Robbie Kearns, Danny Williams, Greg Brentnall, Roy Masters, and Darren Foreman.
- Greg Brentnall taking on the role of Secretary and liaison with Melbourne Storm
Jason Fiddes appointed Treasurer (a role he continues to hold today).
Throughout 2011, the group worked to formalise the Victorian committee. Official recognition was granted on 20 July 2012, when founders Ron Coote and Jim Hall endorsed the committee at a function at Aces Sporting Club, the organisation’s first sponsor.
Partnership with Melbourne Storm
Since its inception, Melbourne Storm has been closely connected to the Victorian committee. Founding committee members included former players and Club representatives, while John Ribot continues as Patron.
The Family of League committee acknowledges the ongoing support of Club leadership, including past and present CEOs, current CEO Justin Rodski, and owners Matt Tripp, Bart Campbell, Gerry Ryan, and Brett Ralph.
The Foundation also recognises Head Coach Craig Bellamy and Football Director Frank Ponissi, whose support ensures Storm’s NRL squad and football staff become members of the Foundation each year.
Special thanks are also extended to Storm staff members Lucy Evans and Peter Robinson for their ongoing support.
Impact in Victoria:
Since 2012, the Victorian committee has delivered meaningful support across the state:
- Financial assistance provided: Over $500,000
- Individuals and families supported: 105
- Types of support: From food and fuel vouchers to full grant funding for those in need
National Impact
The Family of League Foundation continues to serve as the charitable heart of rugby league in Australia.
Key achievements (past 12 months):
- Over $900,000 in financial assistance distributed
- Support provided to more than 200 families and individuals
- Over 870 wellbeing visits to hospitals, aged care facilities, and homes
Scope of support includes:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Emergency relief (food, fuel, household costs)
- Social and emotional wellbeing support
Core Support Pillars
- Social & Emotional Care: Regular visits to reduce isolation and provide companionship
- Mental Health Support: A listening ear and practical assistance
- Community Connection: Local engagement through 39 volunteer committees nationwide
As Melbourne Storm and Family of League celebrate 15 years together in Victoria, the partnership remains united by a shared purpose, ensuring members of the rugby league community are supported when they need it most.
To learn more about Family of League visit www.familyofleague.org.au
