Knights and Miners pay tribute to workers on COVID-19 front line

The Newcastle Knights and miners across NSW are this week paying tribute to those who helped keep families safe and the economy going through the threat of coronavirus.

On Saturday, the Knights will wear the replica mining hi-vis jersey against the North Queensland Cowboys for their Round 7 NRL clash in Townsville.

And recognising the efforts that have been made by so many in recent months, the Knights and our miners have joined together to give a special message of thanks.

A new video featuring Knights players Lachlan Fitzgibbon, Hymel Hunt and Josh King, as well as miners from across NSW, is being released to thank frontline workers, healthcare professionals, community leaders and everyone helping in the fight against COVID-19.

NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said no matter which team you support, we can all be proud of the way the community has pulled together.

“So many people have been doing it tough. But we’ve stuck together and kept going to stay as safe as possible,” Mr Galilee said.

“We thank our healthcare professionals and emergency services workers, and others like supermarket workers, delivery drivers and coffee shop owners who all got on with the job safely.

“Our mines have also been able to keep working with new protocols ensuring safe operations, supporting local jobs and communities in the Hunter and across regional NSW.”

Newcastle Knights CEO, Mr Philip Gardner said this round is a great time to say thanks.

“While we have to remain vigilant at the Club and in the community, it’s important to reflect on where we’ve come and recognise what has been achieved,” Mr Gardner said.

“Being able to play football again is a privilege and our team is proud to wear the mining hi-vis jersey this weekend because it represents our mining families, such a big part of our community.

“Whether you’re a supporter in red and blue, a frontline worker helping to keep us safe, or a mining family wearing hi-vis, we’re all on the same team this weekend - a team that sticks together, cares for the community and a team that we can all be proud of.”